In Japan, four patients have regained their vision for the first time using stem cells.

In Japan, the first operations to restore vision using stem cells have been conducted. The results were successful, with patients experiencing improved vision and reduced corneal opacity. This information is reported in a study published in The Lancet.

The research took place at a hospital affiliated with Osaka University. Four patients participated in the study — two women aged 38 and 44 with idiopathic limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and two men aged 66 and 72 with a similar diagnosis. All participants had a deficiency of limbal stem cells.

The study explains that the loss of epithelial stem cells from the limbus at the edge of the cornea has serious implications for vision, and the pathological manifestations of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) are difficult to treat.

The individuals received transplants of epithelial cells, which constitute the cornea of the eye, sourced from stem cells. Following the procedure, patients reported improved vision and decreased corneal opacity.

It was noted that the study participants were monitored for 2 years. They did not experience any side effects, and there were no transplant rejections.

"There was no immunological rejection or tumor formation, and no serious side effects were observed, as defined by the clinical protocol. Therefore, the safety monitoring committee was not convened. Nine minor adverse events were documented during the 1-year additional safety monitoring period," the study states.

The research also indicates that the method will not be widely implemented yet, as it requires further study; however, it has been described as potentially beneficial for individuals with corneal pathologies in both eyes.

It is worth recalling that it was previously reported that in China, diabetes was cured for the first time using stem cells. After this treatment, the patients were able to discontinue insulin.