Table 7.

Properties, advantages, and disadvantages of different carrier biomaterials and methods used in cell-based therapies of LSCD, explored in animal models.

Carriers/Methods	Transparency	Mechanical Strength	Elasticity	Advantages	Disadvantages
AM	+	++	+++	Stimulates cell growth, anti-inflammation, anti-angiogenesis, proper elasticity	Limited transparency, variable quality, risk of disease transmission, limited mechanical strength, poor standardization
Carrier-free method	N/A	N/A	N/A	Rapid adhesion, does not require preparation and standardization of membranes, does not require sutures	Possibility for detachment from the ocular surface in the early period after surgery
Fibrin gel	++	+++	+++	Proper transparency, good bioadsorbence, easy manipulation, good mechanical strength, elasticity, degradable	Possibility for immune response, risk for disease transmission
Nanofiber	++	++++	++	Good transparency, high mechanical strength, highly flexible, proper biocompatibility, easy to use, controlled shape and pore size, low cost	Limited elasticity, high cost

N/A indicates not applicable.