L12 Flecther SC & the Eye Summary PDF

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Stem cells and the eye...

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STEM CELLS AND THE EYE: L28 PROFESSOR ERICA FLETCHER  Stem cell therapies for restoring vision in retinal degenerations involves replacement of lost photoreceptors or  Slowing of photoreceptor death by growth factor release from stem cells.  Stem cell therapy can be used to restore vision for retinal degeneration. Issues: o The number of cells that can be injected o Whether they can form new connections with downstream neurons (Formation of correct connections). o Clinical trials promising. Progenitor cells rather than embryonic stem cells show promise in restoring lost photoreceptors in retinal degenerations.  Glial cells in mammals are capable of re-entering the cell cycle, differentiating and forming photoreceptors following injury. Need to understand the mechanisms and apply to human eyes....