Stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine in RPE degenerative disease: advances and challenges

Introduction: Retinal degenerative disorders affect patients of all age groups and cause devastating, irreversible vision loss. To date there is no effective treatment capable of restoring retinal function. Pluripotent stem cells, like embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, have the capacity to differentiate into any cell derived from the three germinal layers, including retinal tissue. Considering that, research in transplanted retinal cells derived from pluripotent stem cells has shown progressive results. Areas covered: The article discusses recent relevant clinical trials in retinal pigment epithelium-derived embryonic stem cells and -induced pluripotent stem cells, as well as challenges stem cell research faces from bench to bed side. Expert commentary: Therapies involving stem cells and regenerative medicine have the potential to restore sight and revolutionize the treatment of retinal disease. Clinical trials show promising results. Research surrounding obstacles and challenges is underway.