Investigating the preclinical effect of transplantation of Very Small Embryonic-like Cells (VSEL) on the repair of the trabecular meshwork layer in Glaucoma
Alireza Shoae Hassani1 *, Masood Naseripoor 2 , Samaneh Dehghan2 , Naveed Nilforoushan2
- Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Eye Research Center, The Five Sense Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Abstract: Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness characterized by the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The trabecular meshwork (TM) plays a critical role in regulating IOP through aqueous humor outflow. This study investigated the potential of Very Small Embryonic-like Cells (VSELs) to repair the TM layer and restore its functionality in a glaucoma mice model.
Methods: VSELs, with their pluripotent characteristics, were isolated and characterized from human umbilical cord blood. A glaucoma model was induced in mice by elevating IOP through corticosteroid modification of aqueous humor drainage. Following the establishment of elevated IOP, VSELs were transplanted into the TM region. Post-transplantation, we assessed changes in the morphology and function of the TM layer using histological analysis, intraocular pressure measurements, and immunohistochemical staining for cellular markers.
Results: Our results demonstrate that the transplantation of VSELs facilitates significant repair of the trabecular meshwork, leading to a reduction in IOP and improvement in aqueous outflow. Enhanced expression of endothelial like cells, myofibroblasts, and monocytes and TM-specific markers was observed, indicating VSELs' potential to stimulate regenerative processes.
Conclusion: This preclinical study highlights the promising therapeutic potential of VSEL transplantation in the management of glaucoma, offering insights into novel regenerative strategies aimed at restoring TM integrity and function in the future clinical trials.
