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Updates on Corneal Xenotransplantation

  • Regenerative Medicine in Ophthalmology (D Myung, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Globally, the supply of donor cornea does not meet the demand in certain regions. Corneal xenotransplantation has been investigated as an alternative option of corneal allotransplantation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive update on corneal xenotransplantation.

Recent Findings

This article reviews current knowledge of the antigenicity and bio-physical properties of pig corneal grafts in corneal xenotransplantation, including efficacy and safety data of corneal xenotransplantation using genetically engineered (GE) or wild-type (WT) porcine grafts and decellularized porcine grafts in nonhuman primates as a proof-of-concept. Recent advances in regulatory issues and standardization of protocols for their use are also discussed to help facilitate clinical trials of corneal xenotransplantation in the future.

Summary

This review posits that a proof-of-concept opportunity exists in certain breeds of pigs on corneal xenotransplantation, suggesting feasibility as an alternative option of corneal allotransplantation.

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Funding

This study was supported by a grant from the Korea Healthcare Technology R&D Project, Ministry for Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea (Project No. HI13C0954).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro Jongno-gu, Seoul, 110-799, South Korea

    Hyuk Jin Choi, Chang Ho Yoon & Mee Kum Kim

  2. Laboratory of Ocular Regenerative Medicine and Immunology, Seoul Artificial Eye Center, Seoul National University Hospital Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul, South Korea

    Hyuk Jin Choi, Chang Ho Yoon & Mee Kum Kim

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  1. Hyuk Jin Choi
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Correspondence to Mee Kum Kim.

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Choi, H.J., Yoon, C.H. & Kim, M.K. Updates on Corneal Xenotransplantation. Curr Ophthalmol Rep 7, 30–36 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40135-019-00196-y

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