A microfabricated 3-D stem cell delivery scaffold for retinal regenerative therapy

[摘要] (cont.)Photolithography, standard replica molding, and soft lithography techniques are used to fabricate the device elements. The 3-D device is designed with a defined cage structure to encapsulate a large number of cells. Another layer of the design allows for unidirectional cell migration out of one end into the subretinal space with the aid of contact guidance ridges. The third design layer allows for nutrient infiltration from the retinal pigment epithelium into the cell cages. The ultimate goal is to provide an environment compatible with the normal retinal tissue and conducive to the formation of functional synapses under the appropriate conditions, thereby restoring proper vision. With demonstration of efficacy and cell retention in vitro, the scaffold has the potential to reverse retinal degeneration due to disease or trauma and improve retinal function and integrity in vivo.

[发布机构] Massachusetts Institute of Technology