DR. RAJANI R. BATTU

Abstract

Purpose: Retinal degenerations like AMD and RP cause retinal cell death and progressive vision loss. Transplantation of RPE cells into the subretinal space is a promising therapy. Here, we tested denovo generation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) from peripheral blood, its differentiation into RPE, characterisation and transplantation into RCS rats to rescue photoreceptors (PR) and visual function. We also carried out tumorogenicity and toxicology studies. Results: All the experimental animals showed bleb formation and successful delivery of cells. Vision was rescued in the study groups compared to control animals. HPE showed significant PR rescue in the study groups. No animals showed tumour formation. Conclusion: When transplanted subretinally in the RCS rats, RPE cells delayed vision loss over that of controls. Rod and cone PRs were rescued in the area of the grafts. GMP protocols are being tested in preparation for human trials in dry AMD

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