Research for a cure ☺️
At the moment, Stargardt’s, Macular dystrophy, is untreatable.
A number of novel interventions are currently under investigation, including stem cell therapies.
Stem cells are a special type of cell which, when put under the right conditions, can develop into many other types of cell including those found in the macular. It is hoped that new cells derived from stem cells can be grown in a laboratory to be transplanted into the eye to replace areas of dead or non-functioning cells.
Stem cells can be sourced from a number of places including blood, bone marrow, umbilical cord and fertilized egg cells.
Researchers are involved in the first ongoing stem cell trial for Stargardt’s. More research will need to be undertaken in the future to determine to what extent stem cell therapy might help improve vision for people with Stargardt’s and the other conditions know as Macular Dystrophies.
This is ongoing and will hopefully turn out to be a cure or treatment for Macular Dystrophies.
Until then, we have to protect our eyes from further deterioration by using UV and blue light blocking, polarized sunglasses, make sure we don’t take onboard too much vitamin A, but don’t deprive yourself, as we need Vitamin A for good health elsewhere. Just don\’t take supplements with this vitamin included. Vitamin A causes the build up of lipofuscin, as our eyes do not process the waste correctly, causing the central vision to fade.
