Purpose: The correct orientation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells is necessary for the integrity and proper function of the retina. For transplantation of RPE/iris pigment epithelium (IPE) grafts to the subretinal space in age-related macular degeneration, this cellular orientation is most effectively provided by a membranous support. The goal of this study was to establish an autologous or homologous membrane as a substratum for the growth of RPE/IPE.
Methods: Porcine and bovine RPE and IPE were placed in primary culture on a dissected sheet (5 x 5 mm) of autologous porcine and bovine Descemet's membrane in slide chambers and grown to confluence.
Results: RPE and IPE cells cultured on Descemet's membrane form an intact monolayer. Light and electron microscopy showed the formation of both an intact monolayer and microvilli in both cell types.
Conclusion: Since the slow host-graft rejection appears to play an important role in the failure of RPE transplantation in the subretinal space, it is critical to be able to transplant autologous materials. The techniques presented here establish a novel means to culture RPE or IPE cells on autologous Descemet's membrane where they form a "cell monolayer patch," consisting of a fragment of Descemet's membrane with cultured RPE or IPE, which can be easily manipulated and transplanted, using an established glass pipette method.