TOKYO: Japanese scientists have successfully used human stem cells to close a hole in the retina of a monkey.
Scientists say the breakthrough could pave the way for better treatments for small holes that form in the middle part of the vision, the macula.
These macular holes can distort or blur vision and cause problems with seeing clearly when looking, reading, or driving.
Dr. Michiko Mendai, senior author of the study from Kobe City Eye Hospital, Japan, said the results of the study suggest that this procedure may be a safe and effective treatment for complex macular hole cases.
However, experts say that the results of animal research are not the same for humans.
Thanks to treatment innovations over the past decade, 90 percent of macular holes have been successfully closed, the researchers said in the study.
