Researchers turn to stem cell therapy for AMD cure

The project, involving the University College of London, Moorfields Eye Hospital and the University of Sheffield, will involve producing a cell replacement therapy from human embryonic stem cells. Trials using patients’ own cells have proved that this approach can work.

AMD affects around a quarter of people over the age of 60 in the UK, and 14 million people across Europe. The condition arises when cells which support the light-sensitive cells in the retina fail, causing people to lose their sight progressively. There is no treatment for this form of AMD.

Those with AMD also sometimes develop new blood vessels in the retina, which then leak fluid (known as ‘wet AMD’). The treatments available for this type of the condition are only suitable for some patients and are often only temporary.

Professor Pete Coffey, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and director on the London Project, said: “The London Project aims to deliver treatment for a disease which has no alternative therapy. Using stem cells – which are far more adaptable – can only improve success of what has already been achieved and in addition establish this as a global therapy.”