Stem Cells for Macular Degeneration

Age related macular degeneration affects over 200,000 people in the United States every year, but if one learns the symptoms early on and seeks treatment from an ophthalmologist, chances for keeping their vision are vastly increased. Early detection is the key to keeping one's vision!

Symptoms of macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration occurs when the macula--the central portion of the retina that is essential for reading and color vision--deteriorates. Central vision is lost, creating a blind spot. This is not total blindness, but it does affect the ability to drive, read or even recognize faces. It is most common after age 50.

Dry versus wet macular degeneration

Dry macular degeneration (without bleeding) is the most common form of this disease. Medication via a shot in the eyes can slow down the degeneration but cannot stop it. Wet macular degeneration happens when the side blood vessels to the maculae leak and damage central vision. Treatments for wet macular degeneration, as of 2010, included laser and radiation therapy, both still in the investigatory stages.

Stem cells pros and cons

Stem cell transplantation is possibly the best treatment for dry macular degeneration, but the hopes for this treatment are countered by the dangers of infection. The use of immunosuppressant drugs are necessary for a successful transplant and to avoid rejection of the donor tissue.

Stem cells

Stem cells are different from all other types of cells because they are able to renew themselves. Since they are non-specific, they replicate the specific cells in body's damaged organ. This is the "magic" of stem cells. Adult stem cells are developed and regenerated in labs and are then transformed into patches of cells identical to those of the damaged retina.

Other trials that have worked include transplanting the patient's own healthy cells from the corner of the eye into the diseased part of the retina. Much of the research on this transplant procedure has occurred in the UK, therefore it may take some time before it becomes a routine operation in the United States.