Investigating the effects of allogeneic simple limbal epithelial transplantation

The Effects of Allogeneic Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation

National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT04021134

This study is testing if a new eye surgery using tissue from the other eye can help people with limbal stem-cell deficiency see better and keep their cornea healthy.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages10 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital (other)
Locations2 sites (Taipei, Taiwan, Republic Of China and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04021134 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the effects of allogeneic simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET) on patients with limbal stem-cell deficiency. The approach involves using small pieces of limbus from the contralateral eye to promote re-epithelialization and restore corneal surface stability. The study will track outcomes such as visual acuity and the maintenance of a healthy corneal surface over a follow-up period of approximately 9 months. The findings will contribute to understanding the efficacy of SLET in treating this condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 10 to 90 years with grade 2 or worse limbal stem cell deficiency that has not improved with medication.

Not a fit: Patients whose symptoms improve spontaneously or with medication, or those with severe ocular conditions, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve vision and quality of life for patients suffering from limbal stem-cell deficiency.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies on autologous SLET have shown promising results, indicating that allogeneic approaches may also be effective, although they are less commonly reported.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age between 10 to 90 years old
2. The lesion eye has at least grade 2 limbal stem cell deficiency
3. The lesion eye has limbal stem cell deficiency causing recurrent corneal erosion and neovascularization ingrowth
4. The symptoms last for at least 6 months and do not improve with medication

Exclusion Criteria:

1. The symptoms improve spontaneously or with medication
2. Someone who can not be examined regularly after the operation
3. Poor prognosis
4. Severe lagophthalmos or trichiasis that has not been corrected
5. Ocular infection

Where this trial is running

Taipei, Taiwan, Republic Of China and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Limbal Stem-cell Deficiency

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.