One possible treatment for retinal diseases, including all types of Usher syndrome, is called cell replacement therapy. This approach is still being developed, but the idea is to grow new light-sensing cells (photoreceptors) from stem cells and surgically place them into the retina to restore vision.
In this study, scientists discovered a new kind of stem cell called human Neural Retinal Stem-like Cells (hNRSCs). These cells can renew themselves more effectively and may be better at repairing the retina. When researchers transplanted them into the eyes of mice with retinal degeneration, the mice showed improved vision and healthier retinal structure.
What this means for the Usher syndrome community: Cell replacement therapy is still in early stages of development, but it may work for all USH subtypes, regardless of genetic changes. This research helps scientists understand which stem cells might be most useful for building replacement retinal cells in future therapies.
