Cellular regeneration strategies for macular degeneration: past, present and future.

摘要: Despite considerable effort and significant therapeutic advances, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains the commonest cause of blindness in developed world. Progressive late-stage AMD with outer retinal currently has no proven treatment. There been interest possibility that cellular treatments may slow or reverse visual loss AMD. A number modes action have suggested, including cell replacement rescue, as well immune modulation to delay neurodegenerative process. Their appeal this enigmatic disease relate their generic, non-pathway-specific effects. The retina particular at forefront developments regenerative therapies being surgically accessible, easily observable, having a relatively simple architecture. Both pigment epithelium (RPE) photoreceptors considered for both sheets suspensions. Studies using autologous RPE, lesser extent, foetal retina, shown proof principle. wide variety sources proposed pluripotent stem cell-derived cells holding centre stage. Recent early-phase trials these RPE met safety endpoints hinted possible efficacy. Animal studies confirmed promise photoreceptor replacement, even completely degenerated restore some vision. Many challenges, however, remain, not least which include avoiding rejection, ensuring long-term survival maximising effect. This review provides an overview progress made, ongoing challenges ahead.