Scientists have crafted a novel substance derived from the collagen protein found in pig skin, which closely mimics the structure of the human cornea. This breakthrough has already restored vision to 20 individuals, offering a beacon of hope for those afflicted with corneal blindness.
Approximately 12.7 million individuals globally are visually impaired or blind due to corneal damage or disease. The conventional solution for vision restoration is a corneal transplant from a human donor. However, the odds of receiving such a transplant are slim, with only one in 70 patients benefiting from this procedure. Moreover, the majority of these patients reside in nations with lower to middle incomes, where access to such treatments is severely restricted.
To counteract the limitations inherent in traditional corneal treatments, researchers have harnessed the collagen protein from pig skin. "We can create a biocompatible material that fulfills all the requirements for human implantation, capable of being produced in large quantities to aid a broader spectrum of individuals facing vision impairment," stated Professor Neil Lagali. Unlike donated corneas, which have a short shelf life of two weeks, these bioengineered corneas can be preserved for up to two years, enhancing their practicality. The pig skin, a byproduct of the food industry, is readily available, further simplifying the process.
Innovative surgical techniques have been developed in tandem with this material, eliminating the need for sutures in the procedure. In an initial trial, 14 out of the 20 subjects were completely blind prior to the surgery. Remarkably, after a period of two years, all patients experienced a return of their sight. Among them, three Indian participants who had been blind achieved full visual acuity post-operation.
The research team is eager to explore the potential applications of this technology for treating a wider array of eye conditions and is investigating the possibility of customizing the implants to individual patients, thereby increasing their efficacy even further.
