Scientists at UC Irvine have created an early stage retina from human embryonic stem cells. It is the first three-dimensional tissue structure to be made from stem cells and bring us closer to the development of transplant-ready retinas to treat eye disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration that affect millions. Researchers managed to employ a technique that allowed them to create the multiple cell types necessary for the retina.
Source: Journal of Neuroscience Methods, 4-24-10.