Will Stem Cells Become A Treatment For Blindness?
Recent studies suggest stem cells may be a useful treatment for blindness in the near future. Two recent studies suggest stem cells have potential for treating conditions that cause retinal degeneration.
Scientists with the RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology in Japan used adult stem cells taken from mice to grow new retina tissue. This tissue was then transplanted into mice with late-state retinal degeneration. After the procedure, the scientists tested the mice to see if their vision was restored. According to the results, 40 percent of the mice regained the ability to see light after one month. However, the researchers were quick to note that it may be many years before this treatment is tested on humans.
Another study recently published in Cell Stem Cell carried out a similar procedure on mice. These scientists found a way to prevent the immune system from rejecting stem cells used to rebuild photoreceptors, cells in the retina that sense light. Researchers injected the mice with cells that lacked a mechanism responsible for triggering an immune response. Mice injected with the stem cells could make out light and movement.
Both studies are promising because they take a step in the direction of curing certain types of blindness in humans.
How Could Stem Cells Be Used to Treat Blindness?
Stem cell treatments could be useful for people suffering from macular degeneration, a condition that degrades the retina over time. More than 15 million people suffer from macular degeneration in the United States.
Stem cells are also a possible treatment for retinopathy of prematurity. Specifically, stem cells taken from the umbilical cord may prove very useful for treating the condition before it causes blindness.
Very helpful and honest discussion. Thanks. After 36 yrs of marriage it still takes work on both sides. Walking and talking helps. Unsocial media not so much. Old habits die hard and we tend to revert to root training when stressed by covid or politics. Not always a good thing. I Wish we knew as much about who/what is good therapy for modern malaise as we do about the latest graphics card. Damion Himanga
Are you in any way involved with Retinopathy of Prematurity?
Yes, I have worked with many of the preeminent experts in ROP, both retinal ophthalmologists and pediatric ops, too. The neonatologist community has also been involved throughput the decades of research and changing, less invasive, therapies.
I know many of them personally.
The statistics have improved as to total blindness with fewer detachments each year.
If you wish to discuss a particular case, call my cell phone directly at:
(941)920-3001
Thank you for your inquiry,
I have devoted a good portion of my practice for over forty years now.
Sadly, by the time they get to my firm, it’s usually futile, except for monetary damages.
I love helping these kids who never should have been blinded at all. Feel free to call me anytime at all
Richard Shapiro
SHAPIRO LAW GROUP
Bradenton, FL
34205
cell number –
(941) 920.3001
I have learned so much from the preeminent ROP physicians
I wish you the very best
Richard