Neuroretinal Degeneration

Organotypic neuroretina culture, from human and other mammals, has been demonstrably useful in improving our knowledge of retinal physiology and pathobiology. Furthermore, in organotypic cultures the morphology and functionality of the organ is temporarily retained, and experimental conditions are under control. We have also developed double and triple layered co-culture models, with neuroretina, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and/or stem cells. In this model, neuroretina explants were cultured over cell culture membranes that inhibit RPE/stem cell migration into the retinal tissue and the direct contact with the neuroretinal cells; while molecular exchange among the different cell types can occur. In this scenario, secreted factors can diffuse through the cell culture membrane pores and influence neuroretina cell dynamics, thus recreating the subretinal space milieu. These in vitro models are adequate for the evaluation of novel drugs and advanced therapies.