Collagen type I–PLGA film as an efficient substratum for corneal endothelial cells regeneration

Surface modulations of desired biological construct design for regenerative medical therapy is considered to be highly crucial for cell growth and the subsequent regeneration of biologically competent tissues. In this study, we fabricated stable, transparent, collagen type‐I‐coated PLGA films (Col I–PLGA) as a potential substratum for the regeneration of corneal endothelial cells. Morphological and structural properties were analysed by FE–SEM, AFM, FTIR, contact angle, etc., and in vitro biocompatibility of the Col I–PLGA films was further tested in primary rabbit corneal endothelial cells (rCEnCs) as models. Compared with bare PLGA films, the Col I–PLGA films displayed the requisite surface roughness, with higher Ra (nm) values, transparency, good hydrophilicity, stability and water uptake. Next, cultured rCEnCs on Col I–PLGA films showed the characteristic polygonal shape of rCEnCs with enhanced initial attachment, proliferation and expression of mRNAs. Collectively, these results indicate that Col I–PLGA can be employed as a suitable alternative for high‐quality corneal tissue expansion and transplantation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.