So we are all aware of the upcoming trials by Advanced Cell Technology to see whether Stargardt's and also Dry Age Related Macular Degeneration can be treated with embryonic stem cells. ACT released more information a few days ago about the upcoming trials involving 12 patients for each condition.
The phase of the study isn't actually testing whether using the stem cells will have any benefit, rather on the safety of using such technology.
The am of the treatment is to replace the malfunctioning RPE cells in the macular with functioning cells to halt the damage being done.
Hopefully the first phrase of the trials are successful and safe, with minimal harm being placed on the brave Stargardt's patients being involved.
Check out more information on the links below.
Red Orbit
UK Mail online
Google News
If/when the treatment is deemed safe for use in humans, are they expecting that the treatment will just halt the degeneration of cells any further, or is there hope that it can also restore vision?
ReplyDeleteI've been following this story from the start as well, and some times they use language that makes it sound like they can restore vision with this (in the mouse model) and other times it sounds like they will just be able to stop the disease progression.
Just wondering what you've heard.
I've had SD for 22 years, so I am hoping that this treatment can restore some vision that has been lost.
Hi Mike!
ReplyDeleteI have thought the same thing. Most of the artciles don't say that it wll entirely restore vision, but rather halt its progression or improve slightly, which is dsappointing for those who by that time would have lost a lot of their sight. But I also think they can't go around saying it's a miracle cure and promising results that can't be definite just yet. I guess we'll have to wait and see! I'm positive there will be a treatment to restore vision in the future as the medical world is advancing every day! We just have to stay on top of it all and keep following the progress!! All the best :)