Regeneração da córnea com células-tronco e bioengenharia: avanços tecnológicos e perspectivas clínicas

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.6422501101

• Palavras-chave: Células-tronco, Bioengenharia de tecidos, Córnea artificial, Oftalmologia regenerativa

• Keywords: Stem cells, Tissue bioengineering, Artificial cornea, Regenerative ophthalmology

• Abstract: Corneal regeneration through stem cell therapies and tissue bioengineering has emerged as an innovative solution for the treatment of corneal diseases that affect vision and ocular health. Conventional approaches, such as corneal transplantation, face limitations related to donor scarcity and the risk of immune rejection. In this context, the use of stem cells—such as limbal, mesenchymal, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)—offers new perspectives for regenerating the different corneal layers, enabling tissue repair and restoration of optical function. Tissue bioengineering, in turn, has advanced significantly, allowing the development of biocompatible scaffolds, hydrogels, and artificial corneas, which can be combined with stem cells to promote efficient regeneration. Despite these advances, technical challenges persist, including the precise control of cell differentiation, the functional integration of biomaterials, and the risk of immunological complications. Moreover, the exact replication of the cornea’s lamellar architecture and the maintenance of its transparency remain critical barriers to clinical success. This article reviews the major progress in the use of stem cells and tissue bioengineering for corneal regeneration, highlighting the main techniques, current obstacles, and future perspectives. As science continues to evolve, these approaches may become effective and accessible treatments for a wide range of corneal pathologies, revolutionizing the field of regenerative ophthalmology.