Trends of Stem Cell Therapies in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a highly prevalent irreversible impairment in the elderly population worldwide. Stem cell therapies have been considered potentially viable for treating AMD through the direct replacement of degenerated cells or secretion of trophic factors that facilitate the survival of existing cells. Among them, the safety of pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell transplantation against AMD, and some hereditary retinal degenerative diseases, has been discussed to a certain extent in clinical studies of RPE cell transplantation. Preparations are in progress for its clinical application. On the other hand, clinical trials using somatic stem cells are also being conducted, though these had controversial outcomes. Retinal regenerative medicine using stem cells is expected to make steady progress toward practical use while new technologies are incorporated from various fields, thereby making the role of ophthalmologists in this field increasingly important.

Automated summary

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent irreversible impairment in the elderly population, and stem cell therapies are being considered as a potentially viable treatment option. Clinical studies and applications focusing on pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are progressing, while controversy surrounds the use of somatic stem cells in clinical trials. The field of retinal regenerative medicine using stem cells is expected to advance steadily with the incorporation of new technologies from various fields, emphasizing the importance of ophthalmologists in this area.