Background: To investigate the effect of using gelatin-microbial transglutaminase (gelatin-mTG) complex for treating experimental retinal detachment.
Methods: Vitrectomy with artificial posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) followed by induction of a retinal tear and detachment was performed in rabbit eyes. Gelatin-mTG complex or gelatin alone (control) was placed on the retinal tears. Fundus examination using optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed after the surgery. Vitrectomy with PVD alone was also performed in additional rabbits. After application of the gelatin-mTG complex on the normal retinal surface, the electroretinogram (ERG) was measured 7 days after surgery.
Results: Gelatin-mTG complex covered the retinal tear for more than 7 days after the vitrectomy, with less prominent inflammation. Reattachment of the retina occurred in all treated eyes. In contrast, massive fibrin materials were observed at 1 day after the surgery in the control group. In addition, OCT showed that all of the gelatin disappeared by day 3. Local retinal detachment remained in three of the eyes. As demonstrated by the ERG, gelatin-mTG complex had no harmful effects on retinal function.
Conclusions: The results indicate that gelatin-mTG complex continues to adhere and seal retinal tears for at least several days after administration without any inflammatory reaction.