Scientists convert stem cells to eye tissue

PUBLIC RELEASE DATE:

5-May-2014

Contact: Katrina Norfleet knorfleet@arvo.org 240-221-2924 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology

Orlando, Fla. In two separate studies, scientists have developed methods to convert non-embryonic stem cells into eye cells that could be used to restore sight. The research is being presented at the 2014 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) this week in Orlando.

In the first method, researchers converted cells taken from the front of a patient's eye into stem cells, which were then programmed to become nerve cells found in the back of the eye. The second study involved introducing stem cells to a single growth factor, which caused them to develop into tissue resembling the developing eye.

Both outcomes will play important roles toward generating sources of transplantable cells to replace damaged tissue in patients with impaired vision.

Abstract Title: Derivation, Characterization and Retinal Neural Induction of Human Tenon's -Derived iPS Cells

Presentation Start/End Time: Monday, May 5, 8:30 10:15am Location: Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Session Number: 218

Abstract Title: The formation of primitive ocular structures and stratified neural retina from human pluripotent stem cells

Presentation Start/End Time: Monday, May 5, 8:30 10:15am Location: Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Session Number: 218

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Scientists convert stem cells to eye tissue