Stem Cells Stop Vision Loss in Rats with Degenerative Eye Disease
Researchers have taken a promising step forward in using stem cells to treat eye diseases. In a paper published today online in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells, Robert Lanza of Advanced Cell Technology in Worcester, MA, used embryonic stem cells to generate retinal pigment epithelium–photoreceptor support cells that are lost in macular degeneration.
The cells were then implanted into rats with eye damage similar to that occurring in degenerative eye disease that causes the animals to lose both their photoreceptors and their sight. Treated animals showed a 100 percent improvement in vision compared with untreated controls.
Restoring vision could be a promising early use of stem cell therapies. Unlike for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, vision scientists know exactly what cells they need to replace. In addition, the eye is easy to access and isn’t as sensitive to immune rejection as other organs (see “Using Stem Cells to Cure Blindness”).
Keep Reading
Most Popular
Anti-aging drugs are being tested as a way to treat covid
Drugs that rejuvenate our immune systems and make us biologically younger could help protect us from the disease’s worst effects.
A quick guide to the most important AI law you’ve never heard of
The European Union is planning new legislation aimed at curbing the worst harms associated with artificial intelligence.
It will soon be easy for self-driving cars to hide in plain sight. We shouldn’t let them.
If they ever hit our roads for real, other drivers need to know exactly what they are.
Crypto is weathering a bitter storm. Some still hold on for dear life.
When a cryptocurrency’s value is theoretical, what happens if people quit believing?
Stay connected
Illustration by Rose WongGet the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.