Scientists successfully awaken sleeping stem cells

March 19, 2008 | Source: KurzweilAI

Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute have discovered what chemical in the eye triggers the dormant capacity of certain non-neuronal cells to transform into progenitor cells, a stem-like cell that can generate new retinal cells.

The discovery offers new hope to victims of diseases that harm the retina, such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

Schepens Eye Research Institute News Release