Improving Vision with Stem Cells

So doctors have recently shown the results of their research on using stem cells to help improve the vision of two women. Both women had different reasons for being legally blind and unable to recognize faces but they both underwent the same procedure to see if the treatment would help. These tests were previously only tested on animals but these the FDA allowed these two women to be the first to undergo this treatment. Doctors implanted stem cells into one eye and monitored their progression. Both women have significantly improved their vision and have started to go out on their own. It was even reported that one of the ladies was able to thread a needle. However, despite these vast improvements doctors have said that it is early into the therapy and there is always the possibility for something to happen.

This article is interesting because it reminded me of the device design last semester. Although it had nothing to do with the eyes, it seems that an early idea (well of our group at least) involved stem cells. It's amazing that these cells are able to do so much and be so useful.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/embryonic-stem-cells-appear-to-restore-some-vision-to-legally-blind-patient/2012/01/23/gIQAoHMPLQ_story.html