Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine in Ophthalmology

Patient specific and disease specific stem cell lines have already introduced groundbreaking advances into the research and practice of ophthalmology. This volume provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of the latest innovations in the field. Twelve chapters discuss the fastest growing areas in ophthalmological stem cell research, from disease modelling, drug screening and gene targeting to clinical genetics and regenerative treatments. Innovative results from stem cell research of the past decade are pointing the way toward practicable treatments for retinitis pigmentosa, age related macular degeneration, and Stargardt disease. What future directions will stem cell research take? Researchers, graduate students, and fellows alike will find food for thought in this insightful guide tapping into the collective knowledge of leaders in the field. Stem Cells in Ophthalmology is part of the Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine series dedicated to discussing current challenges and future directions in stem cell research. Front Matter....Pages i-xvi The Eye as a Target Organ for Stem Cell Therapy....Pages 1-29 Stem Cells in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery....Pages 31-41 The Current Status of Corneal Limbal Stem Cell Transplantation in Humans....Pages 43-56 Lens Differentiation from Embryonic Stem (ES) and Induced Pluripotent Stem (iPS) Cells....Pages 57-73 Stem Cells and Glaucoma....Pages 75-97 Bone Marrow Stem Cells in Retinal Disease....Pages 99-105 Stem Cells, Mechanism-Based Therapies and Regenerative Medicine Approaches....Pages 107-120 New Developments in Retinal Cell Transplantation and the Impact of Stem Cells....Pages 121-138 Cancer Stem Cells in Uveal Melanoma....Pages 139-151 Current Ex-Vivo Gene Therapy Technologies and Future Developments....Pages 153-170 Stem Cell-Based Therapeutics in Ophthalmology: Application Toward the Design of Clinical Trials....Pages 171-178 Back Matter....Pages 179-186