January 15, 2011
New Macular Degeneration Research and Stem Cells
Macular degeneration research is taking on some exciting direction in light of the new FDA approval of Advanced Cell Technology's application to treat dry age-related macular degeneration using retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from human embryonic stem cells.
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is the layer of the retina that sits under the rods and cones, the first layer of the retina. Their job is to absorb excess light and to get rid of waste material that has been created by the rods and cones.
Dry Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of age related macular degeneration that normally causes the least amount of vision loss.
However it can progress to a more severe stage, called geographic atrophy or it may turn to wet macular degeneration, which causes a sudden loss of central vision.
Medical treatment options for the dry form are very limited, apart from a healthy macular degeneration diet and eye supplements. However there are a couple of clinical trials that are now becoming available for dry macular degeneration.
Phase I Clinical Trials
All clinical trials, including this one using stem cells for macular degeneration, starts out as a Phase I clinical trial.In this phase researchers test a new drug or treatment in a small group of people for the first time to evaluate its safety, determine a safe dosage range and identify any side effects.
In this Phase I study, 12 people will receive 50,000 to 2000,000 retinal pigment epithelial cells derived from human embryonic stem cells to replace the damaged or degenerated RPE cells.
Stem Cells
Stem cells are cells that are unspecific - kind of like a blank slate - that can develop into a specialized cell, such as lung tissue or retinal tissue.There are several types of stem cells. Two of the main types are embryonic and adult stem cells. Many people have ethical concerns regarding the use of embryonic stem cells.
However, according to Gary Rabin, Advanced Cell Technology's chief executive, "Advanced Cell Technology uses a proprietary technique to extract a single cell from a young embryo, allowing the rest to remain intact and develop normally."
To learn more about macular degeneration research and stem cells go to:
Macular Degeneration Research and Stem Cells
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Leslie Degner, RN, BSN
Better Health for Better Vision
www.WebRN-MacularDegeneration.com