Feet on the Ground: Physical Support of the Inner Retina Is a Strong Determinant for Cell Survival and Structural Preservation In Vitro

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the importance of local physical tissue support for homeostasis in the isolated retina. Methods: Full-thickness retinal sheets were isolated from adult porcine eyes. Retinas were cultured for 5 or 10 days using the previously established explant protocol with photoreceptors positioned against the culture membrane (porous polycarbonate) or the Müller cell endfeet and inner limiting membrane (ILM)...