Stem Cell Therapy Reverses Blindness

[DrmDoc]

I read this very interesting article today posted by the Baltimore Sun. The article describes the case of a Washington police officer who lost her sight to a condition diagnosed as optic neuritis. Amid her five year search for a cure, Ofc.Vanna Belton volunteered for an unconventional stem cell study, which she financed from her own resources for $20,000. The study involved injecting stem cells, removed from her hip bone, into her right retina and left optic nerve. Although her local doctors advised against this experimental pursuit, Belton was determined and now have partially restored vision. The doctor pursuing this study, Dr. Jeffrey N. Weiss, admittedly circumvented the usual research protocols essential to patient safety. The article cites his impatience with procedural standards, which doesn't instill me with confidence in his reported 60% success rate. I've read about the consequence of these types of therapies and believe she was risking more than she was likely advised. What are your thoughts?

[MigL]

I've lost sight in my left eye, and have severe 'cupping' of the optic nerve in my right eye because of PDS glaucoma.

My field and corrected vision are still good enough to allow me to drive, although night time/bad weather is a real adventure.

The damage, due to pressure, is actually to the cells where the optic nerve makes a bend to meet up with the retina.

 

It would be nice to have a 'restorative' treatment as opposed to treatment which just tries to keep the condition in check.

[DrmDoc]

I agree, it may be a viable therapy for many conditions. I support the research but not to the exclusion of reasonable study and safeguards. I've heard the tales of teeth and boney structures growing where restored brain or other damaged tissue was expected. However, research does have its risks. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.