Aug 30 2010

Genetically Engineered Corneas in Development

Published by at 10:15 pm under Technology

Photo by Scott Bauer, USDA

Researchers have implanted corneas made of genetically engineered collagen in patients for the first time.  Potentially, the millions of people on the waiting list for corneas from human donors could experience restored sight with these implants made from human genes and specialized yeast cells.

Ten patients in Sweden had the genetically engineered corneas inserted two years ago; the vision of six of the ten has improved. None of the patients experienced graft rejection or required long-term immune suppression, both of which can be factors for patients who receive corneas from human donors.

Study authors are optimistic about the development of biosynthetic corneas, but say that the technology is not fully mature.  Right now, the lab-made material is very fragile making it appropriate for patients with surface corneal damage but not those with damage to the innermost layers of the cornea.

This study was published in Science Translational Medicine, Aug. 25, 2010; vol 2. Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=119207

RELATED: Scientist have also worked to transplant retinal tissue using stem cells.

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