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Generation of Myospheres From hESCs by Epigenetic Reprogramming
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Epigenetic reprogramming for ocular aging and disease: Mechanisms, biomarkers, and the road to the clinic

Junwon Lee1, Minseok Han2, Kaixiang Wang3

  • 1Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School (HMS), 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA, 02115, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Institute of Vision Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, 211, Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06273, Republic of Korea.

Progress in Retinal and Eye Research
|January 23, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Epigenetic alterations drive eye aging and vision loss. Epigenetic reprogramming offers a promising therapeutic strategy to restore youthful function and vision in age-related blinding diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cellular Aging

Background:

  • Retinal neural cells are vulnerable to age-related damage due to limited regeneration.
  • Epigenetic alterations (DNA methylation, histone modifications) are key drivers of aging and diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
  • These epigenetic changes disrupt cellular identity and function, leading to irreversible vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of ocular aging from an epigenetic perspective.
  • To examine the therapeutic potential and concerns of epigenetic reprogramming for vision restoration.
  • To discuss the future of rejuvenation therapies in ophthalmology.

Main Methods:

  • Review of accumulating evidence on epigenetic alterations in ocular aging.
  • Analysis of preclinical studies on epigenetic reprogramming for vision restoration.
  • Discussion of Yamanaka factors and chemical cocktails for epigenetic resetting.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic reprogramming can reset dysregulated epigenetic landscapes, restoring cells to a more youthful state.
  • Preclinical studies demonstrate vision restoration in models of optic neuropathy via neuronal rejuvenation.
  • Epigenetic marks are reversible, offering a novel therapeutic avenue distinct from genetic mutations.

Conclusions:

  • Epigenetic reprogramming presents a promising therapeutic paradigm for age-related blinding diseases.
  • Rejuvenation therapies hold significant potential for restoring vision and improving ocular health.
  • Further research is needed to address concerns and optimize epigenetic reprogramming strategies in ophthalmology.

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