Is your dog suffering from symptoms like cloudy eyes, frequent squinting, or unusual teary eyes? It could be a sign of a corneal ulcer, a potentially sight-threatening condition. However, there's hope, thanks to scientists from Chulalongkorn University who have created a groundbreaking three-dimensional (3D) artificial cornea using stem cells.

 

Collaborating on this novel approach, Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Veterinary Science and Faculty of Engineering aim to deliver a more accessible and cost-effective treatment for severe corneal wounds in dogs. At present, such conditions are often treated with relatively expensive, hard-to-find tissue from porcine bladder or canine placentas.

 

Dr Chutirat Torssahakul of the Department of Internal Medicine shed light on the issue, explaining, "Corneal ulcers in dogs are more and more prevalent. They can be caused by numerous factors like allergies, accidents, or fights. Our new 3D stem cell-based artificial cornea is designed to restore perfect vision to our canine friends."

 

 

The innovative artificial cornea borrows materials easily found in Thailand, such as silk fibroin and gelatin to create a strong, durable structure that mimics the actual corneal tissue. Unlike the traditional grafts, this artificial cornea is grown using the dog’s own corneal stem cells, minimizing the risk of post-operation reactions visibly.

 

This new cornea can be tailored to fit the specific injury perfectly, its appearance resembles the natural cornea, and it promotes faster healing due to its living stem cells. Additionally, these stem cells, sourced from the treated dog or recently deceased dogs, minimize the risk of inflammation.

 

Currently, the effectiveness and interaction of the 3D artificial cornea with the dog's body are being tested in laboratories. According to The Nation's report, the initial results look promising. The researchers are optimistic about implementing this innovation in dogs within a few years and later extending it to cats.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-07-12

 

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our little guy has this condition. i would like to know how much it costs... our dog is old, but we have no children to splurge on.

 

only thing that would hold us back is the risk of worsening his condition

Smart people at that university.

it is a good one

23 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

the dog's body are being tested in laboratories

 

Lab dogs ... hard to imagine a more pitiful existence ...