Retinal Stem Cells

Ocular diseases affect millions of people worldwide and have dramatic consequences on the quality of life. Retinal dystrophies and degenerations are among the leading causes of untreatable blindness in the developed world. Although much is known about the ocular pathologies, the mainstay of treatment is either conservative, with multivitamins and minerals, or supportive by prescribing low vision aids (LVA). Like other parts of the nervous system, the retinas lack regenerative capacity. Treatment options for end-stage retinal diseases would certainly include cell replacement, regeneration, or transplantation. Stem cells are able to self-renew and to differentiate into all the cells in the body, and could potentially be used to treat several hereditary and acquired degenerative disorders, including those of the eye. Embryonic stem cells could provide replacement ...