According to US researchers’ transplantation of retina enhances vision of a person. In the new experiment transplantation of cells into the eyes of patients with failing sight improved their vision. Considering this cut edge research positively one UK doctor has been quoted saying that it is a ‘holy grail’ of science. Interestingly, for transplantation of retina aborted foetus is used. According to this research, also, aborted foetuses are used for retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

 

As has been an established norm Retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are some common reasons for blindness, particularly during old age. The researchers implanted the foetal retinal cells alongside cells which have the job of nourishing them. They were hopeful of the fact that new cells would join forces with the existing retinal cells to improve overall vision, and, after positive outcome of the experiment, researchers are confident of better cure for retinal infirmities.

 

However there are various issues related to it, one of them is, there has not been any successful transplantation till now anywhere and second the issue of ethics. Use of foetal cells is impractical, both for ethical reasons, and for sheer lack of supply. According to some experts, in retinal transplantation for each transplantation a new foetus is needed and owing to shortage of supply there can not be a permanent hope for the same.