Source: University of Cincinnati
Date: May 10, 2007
Summary:
Adult bone marrow stem cells may help cure certain genetic eye diseases, according to University of Cincinnati (UC) researchers. Scientists have completed a study using mice which showed that bone marrow stem cells can switch roles and produce keratocan, a natural protein involved in the growth of the cornea—the transparent, outer layer of the eyeball. This ability of marrow cells to “differentiate” into keratocan-producing cells might provide a means for treating abnormal corneal cell growth in people.
