Researchers have demonstrated the long-term safety and efficacy of human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelium in animal models of eye diseases. The therapy has shown functional rescue in both RCS rat and Elov14 mouse, with sustained visual function without tumor formation or untoward pathological reactions.
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology successfully transplanted cloned tissues into animals without rejection. The study's findings suggest that nuclear transplantation could provide a limitless supply of immune-compatible cells and organs for regenerative therapies, tackling one of the major challenges in transplantation medicine.
The ACT EAB believes that this research represents an important milestone in demonstrating the feasibility of new therapies for tissue and organ repair. The board has established strict guidelines for human embryo research, including prohibiting culturing of human embryos in vitro for more than 14 days.