In situ 3D printing of ophthalmic biocuratives for corneal lesion treatment

• Grant number: 25/09240-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: February 01, 2026
• End date: January 31, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Bioengineering
• Principal Investigator: Samarah Vargas Harb
• Grantee: Samarah Vargas Harb
• Host Institution: Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Campinas
• Associated researchers: Ana Carolina Migliorini Figueira ; Caroline Nascimento Barquilha ; Cintia Delai da Silva Horinouchi ; Helga Caputo Nunes Holzhausen ; Mariane Aparecida Risso ; Mônica de Cássia Alves

Abstract

Corneal injuries resulting from infections, trauma, or inflammatory processes compromise the structural integrity and optical transparency of the cornea. Due to their severity, they represent one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss worldwide, affecting millions of people. In this context, the development of ophthalmic dressings that promote rapid and effective corneal regeneration stands out as a clinically relevant strategy, with the potential to reduce severe complications and preserve patients' vision. This project proposes the creation of a dressing composed of methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) and Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF), which will be printed directly onto the ocular surface using in situ 3D printing. Dressings printed directly onto the ocular surface using a manual 3D printer will be compared with dressings previously produced using a conventional 3D printer, in order to assess potential differences in structural quality, adhesion to the ocular surface, biological viability, and effectiveness in tissue regeneration. Initially, the material will be optimized by varying the degree of GelMA methacrylation and the concentrations of GelMA and PRGF in the hydrogel. Furthermore, the incorporation of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) will also be evaluated with the aim of controlling the release of growth factors and enhancing the mechanical properties of the biomaterial, respectively. The materials will be characterized for porosity, rheological and mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. Cell viability, cell proliferation and morphology assays will be conducted using limbal stem cells to ensure the biocompatibility of the dressing with ocular tissue. Additionally, the controlled release of growth factors and the biodegradation rate will be evaluated. In addition to acellular dressings, dressings incorporating mesenchymal stem cells will also be developed and evaluated, aiming to explore their high regenerative potential for enhancing wound healing and restoring corneal function. This project offers an innovative, low-cost, personalized, and effective solution to promote corneal regeneration. (AU)