23.09.11
First embryonic stem cell trial in UK
First human embryonic stem cell trial in Europe is set to take place in the UK. Medics will inject retinal cells into the eyes of 12 patients with an incurable disease, Stargardt’s macular dystrophy, which causes progressive sight loss.
The disease develops in childhood and affects around one in 10,000 people, causing the gradual loss of central vision and leaving only peripheral sight.
The trial will test the safety of using replacement retinal cells known as retinal pigment epithelial cells, derived from human embryonic stem cells. If this is successful, progressively larger numbers of stem cells will be used to check the treatment for effectiveness.
Prof James Bainbridge from Moorfields Eye Hospital said: “There is real potential that people with blinding disorders of the retina including Stargardt’s disease and age-related macular degeneration might benefit in the future from transplantation of retinal cells.”
Prof Chris Mason, chair of Regenerative Medicine Bioprocessing at University College London, said: “Whilst principally a safety study, it will undoubted significantly add to the growing core of knowledge on cell therapies, thus helping advance the entire field.”
Stem cells have the potential to develop into any type of human tissue, meaning they could prospectively be used to cure a vast range of diseases. Yet opponents object to stem cell research as it involves the destruction of human embryos.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]