Interaction and distribution of SWCNTs and graphene within collagen fibers of the corneal stroma

Session Details

Session Title: Corneal Biomechanics

Session Date/Time: Monday 15/09/2014 | 17:00-18:30

Paper Time: 17:48

Venue: Capital Hall A

First Author: : A.Vega Estrada SPAIN

Co Author(s): :    J. Alio   J. Silvestre   F. Rodriguez        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate the permeability in corneal stroma of carbon nanostructures (single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and Graphene). We also aimed to analyze the distribution of the carbon nanostructures along the corneal stroma and also the interaction of the carbon nanostructures with the collagen fibers.

Setting:

Vissum Corporation, Alicante, Spain.

Methods:

Experimental investigation was conducted including 6 eyes of New Zeeland white rabbits that were divided in two groups: Group 1: 3 eyes in which a sample solution containing SWCNTs and β-cyclodextrin wa s added. Group 2: 3 eyes in which a sample solution containing Graphene and β-cyclodextrin was added. The solution containing the carbon nanostructures was applied on the surface of the cornea during a period of 30 seconds. Euthanasia of the animals was conducted 30 days after the procedure. A full thickness trephination of the cornea was performed and samples were evaluated by Optical Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy.

Results:

Optical Microscopy (OM) images at a magnification of 200X shows a homogenous distribution of both SWCNTs and Graphene along the corneal stroma. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images (scale bar 1000 nanometers) confirms the findings observed with OM. It also shows the presence of both, SWCNTs and Graphene among the corneal collagen bundles. TEM images (scale bar 100 nanometers) demonstrate the adsorption and close interaction that is observed between the carbon nanostructures and the collagen fibers throughout the corneal stroma.

Conclusions:

Both, SWCNTs and Graphene show an adequate distribution and interaction with the collagen fibers of the corneal stroma. Due to the excellent mechanical properties of carbon nanomaterials, this interaction may lead to an increase in the rigidity of the ocular tissues.

Financial Interest:

NONE