Ultra Structure of Lyophilized Human Amniotic Membrane

Ultra Structure of Lyophilized Human Amniotic Membrane
2005
T. Rodriguez?Ares1,A, M.J. L?pez? Valladares1,A, R. Tourino Peralba1,A, B. Vieites1,B, M. Silva1,C and J. Couceiro1,C
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science<
A Ophthalmology, B Anatomo ? Pathology, C Institute of Orthopedics and Tissue Bank, 1 University of Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Commercial Relationships: T. Rodriguez?Ares, None; M.J. L?pez? Valladares, None; R. Tourino Peralba, None; B. Vieites, None; M. Silva, None; J. Couceiro, None.
Support: Grant FIS ? PI021608
Abstract
Purpose: To describe the effect of lyophilization in amniotic membrane ultra structure, to provide esperimental evidence for clinical use.
Methods: Human placentas were obtained after elective cesarean deliveries from donors seronegative. After being washed and separated from chorion, amniotic membrane was laid onto a cellulose nitrate filter paper and cut into pieces. These pieces went under lyophilization (freeze?dryer VIRTIS Genesis). Small samples of lyophilized human amniotic membrane were fixed in 2 % glutaraldehyde and examined with a transmission electron microscope.
Results: Examination of the lyophilized human amniotic membrane by electron microscope confirmed that the tissue was well preserved and the basement membrane was clearly visible in all cases.
Conclusions: Lyophilized human amniotic membrane maintains the ultra structural characteristics of this tissue including the presence of a clear basement membrane. Consequently lyophilization is a good alternative to cryopreservation for amniotic membrane, though more studies are necessary to confirm the usefulness of lyophilized human amniotic membrane in ocular surface reconstruction.
Grant Identification: FIS ? PI021608
Key Words: microscopy: electron microscopy