Gene therapy could help with inherited blindness

ConclusionThis innovative set of experiments has shown retinal ganglion cells can be genetically modified to produce a receptor on their surface that can respond to light in the presence of a chemical compound called MAG460. This light receptor can be activated for up to nine days. This was shown in laboratory experiments on the retinas of mice and dogs, and in sight-testing experiments using mice. The mice had been genetically engineered to lose both types of photoreceptors, rods and cones by 90 days. This model mimics what occurs over a much longer timescale in the human condition retinitis pigmentosa. It appears from this research that other cells that are not damaged in the retina, such as retinal ganglion cells, can be genetically reprogrammed to respond to light.These experiments provide hope that, despite the original photoreceptors being damaged or dying, some function can be restored if other cells are undamaged. This could help people with conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, but would not be suitable for people with age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, where the damage is more extensive.The experiments so far show there is some ability to respond to light, but these behavioural tests are at an early stage. More sophisticated experiments are needed to further assess the extent of visual ability this process can restore.No human trials have yet been performed, but the researchers hope this will not be too far off.Analysis by Bazian. Edited...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Genetics/stem cells Source Type: news