TEER in Ophthalmology for Advanced Research with RPE Cells

ophthalmic research

Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) has emerged as a powerful tool in ophthalmology research and has become a standard method for study of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell biology and the development of these cells as a therapeutic for retinal diseases such as Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). The application of TEER in assessing the barrier function and integrity of RPE cell layers has significantly advanced our understanding of retinal diseases and paved the way for innovative therapeutic interventions including some of the most promising cell therapies to date. This article explores the use of TEER in ophthalmology research, with a focus on studies utilizing RPE cells for both research and clinical applications.

By Adrienne L. Watson, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, World Precision Instruments

TEER in Ophthalmology Research: A Game-Changer for Retinal Studies

TEER measurement has revolutionized the field of ophthalmology research, providing a non-invasive, non-destructive and real-time method for evaluating the barrier properties of epithelial cell layers, including RPE cells. The tight junctions between RPE cells play a crucial role in maintaining the blood-retinal barrier and supporting retinal function. TEER offers valuable insights into the structural integrity and functionality of RPE cells, enabling researchers to assess both the health of the retinal microenvironment and investigate disease mechanisms.

Studies Utilizing TEER with RPE Cells

TEER has been utilized to assess the barrier function of RPE cell monolayers in the context of AMD. Researchers have demonstrated that TEER measurements accurately reflected the barrier integrity of RPE cells and served as an accurate and reproducible indicator of cell viability and functionality. Several studies have highlighted the potential of TEER as a quality control tool for evaluating RPE cells in preclinical research and clinical trials. TEER has now become a standard method for quality control of RPE cell therapies and is being implemented into the workflow of RPE manufacturing facilities.3-7

Researchers have also demonstrated that TEER could be used to monitor the barrier properties of RPE cells in patients with diabetic retinopathy. The study revealed a correlation between TEER values and disease progression, suggesting that TEER could serve as a predictive biomarker for retinal health and response to therapy in diabetic patients.8 These findings underscore the importance of TEER in personalized treatment approaches for a variety of retinal diseases.9

Clinical Applications of TEER with RPE Cells

In clinical settings, TEER measurements have been integrated into the quality control assessments of RPE cell therapies for retinal disorders. The barrier integrity of RPE cell monolayers prior to transplantation in patients with retinal degenerative retinal diseases correlated with the RPE function and could be used to predict the therapeutic outcome in patients demonstrating TEER as a clinically relevant predictive biomarker in cell-based therapies.

Future Directions in TEER Research with RPE Cells

The future of TEER research in ophthalmology holds promise for further advancements in understanding retinal diseases and developing targeted treatments. As researchers continue to explore the applications of TEER in RPE cell studies, new insights into disease mechanisms, diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies are expected to emerge. The development and integration of TEER as a standard tool in ophthalmology research and clinical practice will enable safer, more effective therapies and may contribute to personalized medicine approaches for retinal disorders, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.10-12

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