Corneal blindness affects millions resulting in reduced quality of life for the patients and deep socio-economic implications. Cornea epithelium, the upper most layer of the eye, is maintained by limbal stem cells (LSCs). Currently there is no treatment modality available for those suffering from LSC loss in both eyes e.g due to chemical burn or aniridia. The successful treatment would enable the re-establishment of LSCs. Despite our advances in human pluripotent stem cell produced LSCs, lack of profound understanding of the LSC identity and well-being is hindering their therapeutic potential. Project aims to identify true functional LSCs and with combination of 3D in vitro cornea modeling, we can gain increased understanding of the factors affecting their functionality. Both scientific and societal impact is expected due to the novelty of the chosen methodology and direct translational value for the unmet clinical need. More information: (https://research.tuni.fi/eye-group/).

2021

2025