The purpose of this study is to evaluate the angiogenic potential of collagen-glycosaminoglycan (CG) matrices in mitomycin C-induced ischemic conjunctival defect, in New Zealand white rabbits. After creating a conjunctival defect at the center of ischemic conjunctiva, a CG matrix was implanted into subconjunctival space to evaluate the conjunctival reepithelialization and angiogenesis during the wound healing process. In the grafted group, the vessel count of the healed conjunctiva was substantially elevated by two fold within the initial 4 weeks and the increased vascular content originated mostly from the fornix site. The rate of conjunctival reepithelialization was not retarded in the grafted group, and the final thickness of healed conjunctiva was similar in both grafted and ungrafted groups. The histological studies revealed that the collagen matrix did not elicit pronounced inflammatory reaction and the regenerated conjunctiva showed loosely arranged collagen deposition without significant scar formation. The α SMA staining positive myofibroblasts were identified in the acute inflammatory stage and were absent, 8 weeks after implantation in both groups. The results indicated that the porous collagen scaffold was able to enhance vascularization and physiological recovery of ischemic conjunctival defect, implying a potential alternative therapy for the ischemic leaking bleb after glaucoma filtrating surgery in ophthalmic practices.
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