Researchers at Wenzhou Medical University and collaborating institutions have identified a population of human neural retinal stem-like cells capable of regenerating retinal tissue and supporting visual recovery, according to a study published in Science Translational Medicine.1
Vision loss caused by retinal degeneration affects millions of people worldwide. Conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration involve the irreversible loss of lightsensitive neural cells in the retina. While current treatments may slow disease progression, they do not replace damaged tissue.
DECADES-LONG DEBATE SETTLED
For more than two decades, scientists have debated whether humans possess retinal stem cells similar to those found in fish and amphibians, where stem cells in the outer edge of the retina continuously regenerate tissue. This new research provides evidence for their existence in humans.
In the study, titled ‘Identification and characterisation of human retinal stem cells capable of retinal regeneration’, researchers employed single-cell and spatial transcriptomic methods to investigate the presence and identity of retinal stem-like cells. They examined human foetal retinal tissue from donors at 21 weeks of gestation, using advanced techniques to identify and localise cell types in the retina.
The research team identified a distinct population of neural retinal stem-like cells in the peripheral retina of human foetal tissue. These cells, located in the ciliary marginal zone, displayed molecular features consistent with self-renewal and demonstrated the ability to differentiate into all major retinal cell types.
Similar cells were also found in retinal organoids, with overlapping gene expression profiles. Following injury in organoids, these stem-like cells migrated into damaged areas and produced new retinal cells. During the repair process, genetic activity reflected patterns observed during natural foetal development.
PROMISING RESULTS IN MOUSE MODEL
In a mouse model of inherited retinal degeneration, transplanted stem-like cells remained viable for up to 24 weeks. The donor cells integrated into the host retina, developed into mature retinal types including photoreceptors, ganglion cells, and bipolar cells, and formed connections with neighbouring cells. Treated animals exhibited improved retinal structure and stronger visual responses compared to controls. Importantly, no intraocular tumours were observed following transplantation.
ADVANTAGES OVER PREVIOUS THERAPIES
Compared to previously studied retinal progenitor cells, this population showed broader differentiation capacity and longer-term viability. The cells contributed to retinal structure and restored visual function in mice without adverse effects.
The results suggest that retinal organoids may serve as a source of human stem-like cells for future research and therapeutic development. Further studies will be needed to assess safety, immune compatibility, and effectiveness in models that more closely resemble human disease.
Reference available at mivision.com.au.