In this book, leading experts provide detailed descriptions of the exciting treatments that are expected to become part of the ophthalmologist's arsenal within the next 10-20 years. The treatments discussed relate to a wide variety of conditions, including macular degeneration, Leber's congenital amaurosis, retinitis pigmentosa and choroideremia. The authors explain clearly how different gene and cell therapies work and provide first-hand accounts of the difficulties that they have faced in bringing these technologies to clinical trial, such as issues relating to funding and ownership. Results achieved to date are presented, and the further steps required before the treatment in question can become a routine option are considered.

Gene- and Cell-Based Treatment Strategies for the Eye is unique in showing the organic development of cutting-edge science into potential treatments for eye disease without compromising on accurate reporting of scientific facts. It will persuade the average practitioner or researcher - whether ophthalmologist, health worker, or scientist - that change is indeed coming and is not just a hollow promise of the tabloid media.

Inhalt
Introduction.- Gene Therapy for Leber's Congenital Amaurosis due to RPE65 Mutations.- Gene Therapy for Choroideremia.- Gene Therapy for Dominantly Inherited Retinal Degeneration.- Age-Related Macular Degeneration: The Challenges.- Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration: Secretion Gene Therapy.- Transplantation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium for the Treatment of Macular Degeneration.- Restoring Physiologic Barriers Against Neovascular Invasion.