Bone marrow may restore cells lost in vision diseases: UF finding could lead to approaches to treat macular degeneration

Source: University of Florida
Posted: June 8, 2006

Summary:

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - University of Florida scientists conducting experiments with mice have found evidence that the body naturally replenishes small amounts of cells in the eye essential for healthy vision. The finding may shatter the belief that a cell layer vital for eyesight called the retinal pigment epithelium, or RPE, is a nonrenewable resource. With evidence that the body does indeed regenerate these cells in small amounts, scientists can focus on ways to accelerate natural healing processes to treat sight-robbing injuries or diseases. Now, researchers believe it may be possible to also grow new cells in the retina to replace cells lost to injury or disease.

Commentary: This finding could provide scientists with new ideas and strategies for clinical applications of stem cells to treat eye dieases and improve vision.