Fast Facts
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Breakthrough in Vision Restoration: KAIST researchers have developed a novel drug that restores vision by inducing retinal nerve regeneration, providing hope for over 300 million people at risk of vision loss due to retinal diseases.
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Targeting PROX1 Protein: The research team identified the PROX1 protein as a key inhibitor of Müller glia dedifferentiation in mammals, paving the way for a method that promotes retinal regeneration by eliminating extracellular PROX1.
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Long-term Vision Recovery in Mice: In a disease-model mouse study, administration of an antibody against PROX1 resulted in significant neural regeneration and vision recovery lasting over six months.
- Future Clinical Trials: Celliaz Inc., the biotech startup developing this therapy, aims to begin clinical trials by 2028, with the goal of providing effective treatments for patients with degenerative retinal diseases lacking current solutions.
Innovative Breakthrough in Vision Restoration
Vision plays a vital role in our daily lives. Sadly, over 300 million people across the globe face the threat of vision loss due to retinal diseases. Until recently, researchers could slow the progression of these diseases but could not restore lost vision. However, a breakthrough from researchers at KAIST provides new hope. They developed a treatment that regenerates retinal nerve cells, enabling recovery of lost vision. This innovative approach targets the PROX1 protein, which hinders retinal regeneration. By blocking this protein, scientists stimulated retinal regeneration in test subjects. Interestingly, the effects of the treatment last for more than six months. This advancement marks a significant milestone in the long journey toward effective retinal therapies.
The Future of Retinal Therapy
As our population ages, the need for effective treatments grows. Many people suffer from conditions like retinitis pigmentosa without any viable solutions. Researchers found that the failure of mammalian retinas to regenerate significantly limits treatment options. However, studies on fish show that some animals can easily regenerate their retinas. By learning from these mechanisms, scientists discovered how to improve regeneration in mammals. The discovery of the PROX1 protein as an inhibitor presents a new path forward. With the ongoing development of this therapy, the biotech startup Celliaz Inc. plans to begin clinical trials by 2028. The goal revolves around providing meaningful solutions for patients facing the threat of blindness. This research not only shows promise for those suffering but also exemplifies human resilience and innovation in the face of medical challenges.
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