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Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: Development in the Ophthalmologic Field.
Nan Wu1, Marianne Doorenbos2, Dong Feng Chen3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Schepens Eye Research Institute, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Stem Cells International
|September 6, 2016
Summary
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) show promise for treating blindness by differentiating into various ocular cells. Further research is needed to ensure safety and efficacy for clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Stem Cell Biology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are derived from somatic cells.
- iPSCs possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities.
- Ocular cell derivation from iPSCs is a recent advancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of iPSCs in ophthalmology.
- To highlight the successful derivation of various ocular cells from iPSCs.
- To discuss the therapeutic promise and challenges of iPSC-based ocular treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on iPSC derivation and differentiation.
- Analysis of studies reporting ocular cell generation from iPSCs.
- Examination of preclinical and clinical trial data.
Main Results:
- Successful derivation of corneal epithelial-like cells, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), photoreceptors, and retinal ganglion cells from iPSCs.
- Demonstration of functional similarity between derived RPE cells and native RPE.
- Promising results in animal models for vision restoration.
Conclusions:
- iPSCs offer significant potential for treating blinding conditions through cell transplantation.
- Clinical trials have commenced, indicating therapeutic progress.
- Further research is essential to address safety concerns like tumor growth and improve cell integration.
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