Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have created a human retina from embryonic stem cells. This achievement holds great promise for future treatments of macular degeneration and other retinal diseases and demonstrates the value of embryonic stem cell research, as our colleagues at Science Progress note.
The retina, which contains eight layers and many types of cells, is the first three-dimensional tissue structure to be successfully created from stem cells, according to Science Daily.
Embryonic stem cells, such as those used by the Irvine team, are unique in that they can become any kind of human cell, making them ideal for research.
The Obama administration has been careful to prevent unethical practices from being adopted as it eases restrictions on federal funding for stem cell research. The National Institutes of Health has put in place strict guidelines governing the use of stem cells. These stipulate, for example, that only stem cells left over from in vitro fertilization can be used, and donors cannot receive any compensation for these stem cells.
The research at UC Irvine may one day be used to create retinas that could be transplanted, allowing doctors to restore sight to people suffering from blindness as a result of retinal diseases. Are there ethical concerns involved in treatments such as this one? Head over to Science Progress to read more.