ABSTRACT
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells which have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into mature cells. They are highly proliferative, implying that an unlimited number of mature cells can be generated from a given stem cell source. On this basis, stem cell replacement therapy has been evaluated in recent years as an alternative for various pathologies. Degenerative retinal diseases cause progressive visual decline which originates from continuing loss of photoreceptor cells and outer nuclear layers. Theoretically, this therapy will enable the generation of new retinal cells from stem cells to replace the damaged cells in the diseased retina. In addition, stem cells are able to perform multiple functions, such as immunoregulation, anti-apoptosis of neurons, and neurotrophin secretion. With recent progress in experimental stem cell applications, phase I/II clinical trials have been approved. These latest stem cell transplantation studies showed that this therapy is a promising approach to restore visual function in eyes with degenerative retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardts’ macular dystrophy, and age-related macular degeneration. This review focuses on new developments in stem cell therapy for degenerative retinal diseases.
Keywords:
Stem cell, retinal diseases, recent developments
Introduction
Degenerative retinal diseases are among the main causes of irreversible vision loss. In recent years, stem cell transplant studies aiming to restore visual function in these diseases have gained momentum. In this review, we discuss general information about stem cells and evaluate the results of recent experimental and clinical studies concerning the treatment of retinal diseases.
Conclusion
The results reported for phase I/II trials of stem cell applications are quite successful. No systemic side effects were observed in any of the studies. In addition, serious ocular side effects such as tumor formation and uncontrolled proliferation have not been observed. The reported improvements in visual function are encouraging and promising. However, it should not be forgotten that sight-threatening vitreoretinal complications can develop after intravitreal and subretinal applications. Larger studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to determine the place that this treatment will hold in the future. There are currently many studies in progress regarding the use of stem cells in different retinal diseases, and the results are highly anticipated.
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