A groundbreaking stem cell therapy has restored sight to patients who suffered blinding eye injuries. Developed at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, the procedure involves taking stem cells from a patient’s healthy eye, growing them into a tissue graft, and transplanting them into the damaged eye. In an 18-month clinical trial, the treatment successfully restored corneal surfaces in 92% of participants, with a complete recovery in over three-quarters (77%) of cases.
The treatment was extremely safe with no serious complications reported. Researchers note that it does require a healthy donor eye, but future advancements could make it viable for patients with damage in both eyes. The study highlights the potential of cell therapy to treat previously untreatable conditions.
While still experimental, the successful trial is a promising step toward getting FDA approval and being available widely. Researchers are planning more trials to refine the treatment and make it accessible to more patients. Their goal is to expand the options for restoring vision, improving the lives of those affected by severe eye injuries.
Source: GOOD NEWS NETWORK
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