[ad_1]
The research has highlighted a feature of a thin membrane called Descemet's membrane
Eye experts from the University of Nottingham have made a discovery that could help improve the success of corneal transplants in patients whose eyesight has been affected by the disease. The research has highlighted a feature of the thin membrane called Descemet's membrane that can cause difficulties for surgeons performing the complex procedure of Descemet's membrane transplant. The study was conducted by Harminder Dua, professor of ophthalmology and colleagues from the clinical neuroscience division of the university.
Professor Dua said, "This work demonstrated a clear structural uniqueness of the pre-Descemet layer (Dua layer) and also answered a curious surgical question about why Descemet's membrane rolls in the body. This understanding will pave the way for the development of strategies to carry it out during transplantation, with minimal damage to the cells it supports. "
Ophthalmologists have long observed that the Descemet membrane would only roll in one direction
Photo credit: iStock
The Descemet's membrane, named after the French doctor who discovered it at the end of the 18th century, lies between the pre-Descemet layer (Dua layer) and the endothelial layer at the end of the 18th century. The back of the cornea, responsible for pumping excess fluid. keep the cornea sufficiently dehydrated to maintain a clear vision.
In certain diseases such as Fuchs dystrophy or after cataract surgery, the endothelial cells and Descemet's membrane are damaged, leading to corneal saturation and vision impairment. Over time, vision deteriorates and, if left untreated, may result in loss of vision.
To remedy this problem, patients can be offered one of several types of corneal grafting, in which all parts of the damaged or different cornea are removed and replaced with healthy tissue from a donor.
Ophthalmologists have long observed that Descemet's membrane would only roll in one direction, leaving the endothelial cells on the outside of the loop, but wondered why.
Nottingham's research revealed for the first time that the direction of the roll is governed by the content and distribution of elastic-type elastin fibers in the membrane.
The researchers found that the pre-Descemet layer had the highest elastin content of all the tissues studied, but that elastin was evenly distributed in the tissues.
However, when they studied Descemet's membrane, they discovered that elastin was concentrated in a band on the front, which caused the membrane to coil up.
The study also showed that the removal of endothelial cells from the membrane made no difference in the direction of rolling, proving that it was elastin and not the cells that were responsible for the unidirectional rolling characteristic.
The results are significant because they show that enzymes could potentially be used to weaken tissue turnover, which will make it easier for surgeons to successfully implant in the cornea while reducing potential damage to endothelial cells, which are so important for survival. regulate the fluid content of the cornea.
The complete results are present in the American Journal of Ophthalmology.
[ad_2]
Source link
