journal article·2025-12-09Open access

Porcine Corneal Models as Translational Platforms for Innovative Therapies: Current Insights and Future Directions

Patrícia Nápoles, Mónica Faria, Elisa Julião Campos

Journal of Functional Biomaterials· Volume 16· Issue 12

Abstract

The development of advanced biomaterials for corneal applications requires robust translational platforms that faithfully replicate human characteristics. Porcine corneas are increasingly recognized for ophthalmic research. Their unique combination of anatomical similarity, biomechanical comparability, and accessibility make them highly suitable for preclinical evaluation of innovative therapies, bridging the gap between preclinical discovery and clinical application. This review outlines the utility of porcine corneal models in validating advanced biomaterials, particularly in ex vivo settings, focusing on current methodologies, while addressing challenges and future directions. We aim to underscore the potential of porcine corneal models to accelerate the translation of next-generation biomaterials into clinically relevant corneal therapies.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Corneal Surgery and Treatments · Corneal surgery and disorders · Ocular Surface and Contact Lens

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, R. Larga, 3004-516 Coimbra, Portugal

Chemical Engineering and Renewable Resources for Sustainability (CEReS), Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, R. Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal

Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emerging Technologies (LaPMET), Center of Physics and Engineering of Advanced Materials (CeFEMA), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal

Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, R. Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal

Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, R. Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal

Funding

Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia

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