Laboratory for experimental Ophthalmology (Tissue Engineering & Regeneration)

The group focuses on ocular surface regeneration/reconstruction; especially on the lacrimal gland, the conjunctiva and the cornea. Main topic is the development of tissue substitutes based on decellularized tissues and stem cells applying human and xenogeneic (porcine) tissue- and cell sources. The tissue engineered matrices are later on tested in-vivo regarding surgical handling, compatibility and regenerative potential. Another focus is the establishment of dynamic culture systems by using bioreactor technology to better simulate the in-vivo situation. Furthermore, collagen- or keratin-based biomaterials are developed and produced in our research laboratory, such as a clinically applicable atelocollagen gel, which could be used for the first time at the University Eye Clinic Düsseldorf in a patient for ocular surface reconstruction. Through participation in the HOLOSIGHT-study, the clinical performance of Holoclar, an autologous stem cell transplant for the treatment of limbal stem cell deficiency is investigated.