New treatment offers hope to chronic corneal disease sufferers

21 May 2012

Stem cell treatment could restore vision

Two patients have undergone treatment as part of a revolutionary stem cell replacement study which could reverse their corneal blindness.

The pioneering approach to the treatment of eye disease has been developed by Scottish scientists and clinicians, and has entered clinical trials. The research study involves growing stem cells from deceased donors and transplanting them onto the patient's cornea, the transparent front part of the eye.

The donor stem cells have been grown by the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) and the trial is being run by SNBTS together with NHS Lothian and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon today met with Sylvia Paton, the first patient in Scotland to take part in the research study at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh.

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