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Abstract #58959 Published in IGR 16-3

Stem cell therapy for glaucoma: Science or snake oil?

Sun Y; Williams A; Waisbourd M; Iacovitti L; Katz LJ
Survey of Ophthalmology 2015; 60: 93-105


In recent years there has been substantial progress in developing stem cell treatments for glaucoma. As a downstream approach that targets the underlying susceptibility of retinal ganglion and trabecular meshwork cells, stem cell therapy has the potential to both replace lost, and protect damaged, cells by secreting neurotrophic factors. A variety of sources, including embryonic cells, adult cells derived from the central nervous system, and induced pluripotent stem cells show promise as therapeutic approaches. Even though safety concerns and ethical controversies have limited clinical implementation, some institutions have already commercialized stem cell therapy and are using direct-to-consumer advertising to attract patients with glaucoma. We review the progress of stem cell therapy and its current commercial availability.

Wills Eye Hospital, Glaucoma Research Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA. Electronic address: yuanye9940@hotmail.com.

Full article

Classification:

2.17 Stem cells (Part of: 2 Anatomical structures in glaucoma)



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