Patient specific and disease specific stem cell lines have already introduced groundbreaking advances into the research and practice of ophthalmology. This volume provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of the latest innovations in the field. Twelve chapters discuss the fastest growing areas in ophthalmological stem cell research, from disease modelling, drug screening and gene targeting to clinical genetics and regenerative treatments. Innovative results from stem cell research of the past decade are pointing the way toward practicable treatments for retinitis pigmentosa, age related macular degeneration, and Stargardt disease. What future directions will stem cell research take? Researchers, graduate students, and fellows alike will find food for thought in this insightful guide tapping into the collective knowledge of leaders in the field. Stem Cells in Ophthalmology is part of the Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine series dedicated to discussing current challenges and future directions in stem cell research.

Stem Cells in Ophthalmology describes a wide range of therapeutic applications of stem cells in ophthalmological treatments. This book is written and edited by distinguished international authors, who have drawn heavily on their in-depth academic knowledge, practical experience and research. Comprised of 17 chapters, the book initially covers basic stem cell biology and immunity, proceeding to detail the use of stem cell therapy to regenerate all the structures of the visual system and ocular adnexa. Immunologic factors, such as antigen identification and functional rejection pathways are discussed in detail. The book also details practice of translational medicine and facilities, and governmental requirements needed to establish an ocular stem cell program. Stem Cells in Ophthalmology gives extensive coverage to the regenerative use of stem cells in ophthalmology. Enhanced by 84 colour images and illustrations, this is an essential resource for ophthalmologists and stem cell therapists. Key Features 84 full colour images and illustrations Covers all structures of the visual system in detail Edited by pan-American team of ophthalmology experts from Argentina, USA and Brazil

Ocular neuroprotection is aimed at protecting the death of photoreceptors, retinal ganglion, or other important neurons in cases of disease or trauma. Levin (ophthalmology and neurology, U. of Wisconsin at Madison, US) and Di Polo (pathology and cell biology, U. of Montreal, Canada) present 18 chapt.

This text provides expert instruction on the varying surgical techniques currently employed for the regeneration of the ocular surface. Corneal Regeneration: Therapy and Surgery begins with a thorough discussion of current research based on data obtained in clinical human studies, and discusses the potential clinical implications for this promising new stage of eye surgery. Sections devoted to the stem cell, regenerative surgery and therapy of the ocular surface epithelium, corneal stroma, and corneal endothelium follow, each section comprehensively covering applied anatomy, current therapy and regenerative techniques, with a look to future directions of the field including eventual cell therapy. Corneal Regeneration: Therapy and Surgery is the first book of its kind, systematically covering the developments the medical community has achieved in corneal regeneration from all angles. Written and edited by leading experts in the field, researchers and ophthalmologists alike will find this to be a unique source of information on corneal regeneration, as well as a thoughtful reflection on potential applications of regenerative surgery in ophthalmology as a whole.

This is a concise how-to of successfully treating previously deemed "untreatable" retinal and optic nerve conditions with stem cell therapies. Based on the results of 11 years of experience treating approximately 600 patients, this text will serve as a template for others to develop similar stem cell based treatments in their specialty. Author, Jeffrey N. Weiss, MD is specifically poised to offer dependable insight on stem cell surgery for both the retina and the optic nerve, having performed the first retinal stem cell surgery in 2010, with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved studies that are registered with the National Institute of Health (NIH), and listed on ClinicalTrials.gov. Featuring all original work from Dr. Jeffrey Weiss's specialization in stem cell ophthalmology, this book is primarily written for ophthalmologists, but structured so that specialists across disciplines can take the model presented and create their own studies and clinical trials using stem cell therapies.

This book will contain the proceedings of the XIV International Symposium on Retinal Degeneration (RD2010), held July 13-17, 2010, in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada. The volume will present representative state-of-the-art research in almost all areas of retinal degenerations, ranging from cytopathologic, physiologic, diagnostic and clinical aspects; animal models; mechanisms of cell death; candidate genes, cloning, mapping and other aspects of molecular genetics; and developing potential therapeutic measures such as gene therapy and neuroprotective agents for potential pharmaceutical therapy.

Vascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Distinguished clinical and surgical approaches have attempted to overcome its morbidity and mortality; still 17.9 million people die every year due to vascular affections. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. Stem cells synthesize and secrete cytokines that promote cell recruitment, immunomodulation, extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and neuroregeneration, all of which promote regeneration. Besides that, stem cells are also capable of differentiating in various cell types, being employed in tissue engineering. Preclinical and clinical investigations have reported efficacy of stem cell therapy for various vascular diseases. Even though results are encouraging, the studies demonstrate variation in stem cell type and origin, route and protocol for administration, and concomitant use of other treatment strategies, impairing easy interpretation of results and clinical application. The purpose of this book is to compile and comprise the current state of the evidence regarding stem cell therapy for each vascular disease, elucidating possible clinical applications. More than an objective guide for readers on the use of this novel treatment strategy, this publication will advocate for stem cell therapy use and development and will be of significant interest to physicians in a wide range of disciplines as well as researchers.

This new series, based on a bi-annual conference and its topics, represents a major contribution to the emerging science of cancer research and regenerative medicine. Each volume brings together some of the most pre-eminent scientists working on cancer biology, cancer treatment, cancer diagnosis, cancer prevention and regenerative medicine to share information on currently ongoing work which will help shape future therapies. These volumes are invaluable resources not only for already active researchers or clinicians but also for those entering these fields, plus those in industry. Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine is a proceedings volume which reflects papers presented at the 3rd bi-annual Innovations in Regenerative Medicine and Cancer Research conference; taken with its companion volume Stem Cells: Biology and Engineering it provides a complete overview of the papers from that meeting of international experts.

With an increasingly aged population, eye diseases are becoming more widespread. Biomaterials have contributed in recent years to numerous medical devices for the restoration of eyesight, improving many patients' quality of life. Consequently, biomaterials and regenerative medicine are becoming increasingly important to the advances of ophthalmology and optometry. Biomaterials and regenerative medicine in ophthalmology reviews the present status and future direction of biomaterials and regenerative medicine in this important field.Part one discusses applications in the anterior segment of the eye with chapters on such topics as advances in intraocular lenses (IOLs), synthetic corneal implants, contact lenses, and tissue engineering of the lens. Part two then reviews applications in the posterior segment of the eye with such chapters on designing hydrogels as vitreous substitutes, retinal repair and regeneration and the development of tissue engineered membranes. Chapters in Part three discuss other pertinent topics such as hydrogel sealants for wound repair in ophthalmic surgery, orbital enucleation implants and polymeric materials for orbital reconstruction.With its distinguished editor and international team of contributors, Biomaterials and regenerative medicine in ophthalmology is a standard reference for scientists and clinicians, as well as all those concerned with this ophthalmology. - Reviews the increasingly important role of biomaterials and regenerative medicine in the advancement of ophthalmology and optometry - Provides an overview of the present status and future direction of biomaterials and regenerative medicine in this important field - Discusses applications in both the anterior and prosterior segments of the eye with chapters on such topics as synthetic corneal implants and retinal repair and regeneration

Stem Cells and Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine addresses the urgent need for a compact source of information on both the cellular and biomaterial aspects of regenerative medicine. By developing a mutual understanding between three separately functioning areas of science—medicine, the latest technology, and clinical economics—the volume encourages interdisciplinary relationships that will lead to solutions for the significant challenges faced by today's regenerative medicine. Users will find sections on the homeostatic balance created by apoptosis and proliferating tissue stem cells, the naturally regenerative capacities of various tissue types, the potential regenerative benefits of iPS-generation, various differentiation protocols, and more. Written in easily accessbile language, this volume is appropriate for any professional or medical staff looking to expand their knowledge with regard to stem cells and regenerative medicine. - Arms readers with key information on tissue engineering, artificial organs and biomaterials, while using broadly accessible language - Provides broad introduction to, and examples of, various types of stem cells, core concepts of regenerative medicine, biomaterials, nanotechnology and nanomaterials, somatic cell transdyferentiation, and more - Edited and authored by researchers with expertise in regenerative medicine, (cancer) stem cells, biomaterials, genetics and nanomaterials