Adult Stem Cells Restore Eyesight

Another successful therapeutic application of adult stem cells has been reported and involves a pioneering new treatment shown to restore eyesight.

The Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, developed the treatment over the past five years and has successfully helped 40 people see again. The procedure uses stem cells taken from the patient or a donor to redevelop the cornea, the transparent film at the front of the eye which lets in light. [more]

The BBC quoted Opthalmic surgeon Sheraz Daya as stating, "Many people who've had injuries to their eyes, or even people born with congenital deficiencies of stem cells, land up having a problem with the top layer of their cornea. "

One woman who was helped by the treatment was able to see her daughter for the first time. "My God, is that really my baby, look at her she's beautiful," she said.

Posted May 2, 2005 7:05 AM