Cellular reprogramming technology has turned stem cell research into the holy grail of the 21st century. By reprogramming adult cells into cells that have the ability to morph into any cell found in the human body, scientists are on the edge of developing new applications of stem cell research. Fundamental cell therapy technology has already moved into the brave new world of regenerating body parts. Evidence shows that this technology has great potential for vision repair, muscle regeneration and organ reconstruction.
Vision Repair
Macular degeneration of the eyes is the bane of aging. It is the leading cause of vision loss in people 60 or over. Located in the center of the retina, the macula breaks down with age. Currently there is no cure for this disease and treatment options are only able to slow down the rate of vision loss.
However, recent success by a group of researchers able to reprogram bone marrow stem cells to repair damaged retinas in mice is pointing the direction at new potentials for vision repair.
