What are stem cells and where can I find more information on steam cell therapy and research?
Stem cells are a special type of cell, which in the right conditions can be encouraged to grow into any other type of cell in the body, including retinal cells (rods, cones and retinal pigment epithelial cells). In lower vertebrates, such as frog and newts, the eye is able to repair itself after injury. Unfortunately, the human retina cannot do this.
Stem cell therapy for the eye involves taking either the stem cells themselves, or retinal cells which have been derived from stem cells, and transplanting them into the retina. The aim is that these cells will then replace damaged areas of the retina and start functioning as the original cells would have done to restore aspects of sight. Stem cells are currently under investigation in early phase clinical trials to determine their potential to repair areas of the retina where cells have otherwise been damaged or lost due to progressive retinal degeneration.
Further information on stem cell therapy and research can be found on the Retina UK website.
