Stem cell therapy to treat macular degeneration

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease characterized by deterioration of the macula and central vision loss. Stem cell therapy is at the forefront for upcoming AMD treatments, and while there is general consensus that it represents a promising approach, debate is ongoing over the best way to render treatment. Questions over whether to use human embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells, and whether to inject cell suspensions or implant a patch of cells into the eye remain unresolved. Here, we compare and contrast all options and discuss recent clinical progress in treating AMD with stem cell therapy.