STOCKHOLM (Dispatches) -- An implant made of collagen protein from pig’s skin, which resembles the human cornea has been developed , researchers report.
Mehrdad Rafat, the researcher and entrepreneur behind the design and development of the implants says that the Safety and effectiveness of the bioengineered implants have been the core of our work. He adds that they have made significant efforts to ensure that our invention will be widely available and affordable by all and not just by the wealthy. That’s why this technology can be used in all parts of the world. He is an adjunct associate professor (senior lecturer) at LiU’s Department of Biomedical Engineering and founder and CEO of the company LinkoCare Life Sciences AB, which manufactures the bioengineered corneas used in the study.
Researchers from Linköping University and LinkoCare Life Sciences AB used collagen molecules derived from pig skin that were highly purified and produced under strict conditions for human use. The pig skin used is a byproduct of the food industry, making it easy to access and economically advantageous. In the process of constructing the implant, the researchers stabilized the loose collagen molecules forming a robust and transparent material that could withstand handling and implantation in the eye. While donated corneas must be used within two weeks, the bioengineered corneas can be stored for up to two years before use.
Furthermore, the researchers have developed a new, minimally invasive method for treating the disease keratoconus, in which the cornea becomes so thin that it can lead to blindness.