How are stem cells used in Stargardt's disease?

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can give rise to different types of cells in the body from brain to muscle cells. Stem cells can be used to replace damaged or diseased cells with healthy ones. Stem cell therapy is used in the treatment of Stargardt's disease which is an inherited condition affecting the macula - a tiny region in retina in the eye responsible for sharp vision.
Stem cells therapy requires use of biochemical solution to trigger differentiation of stem cells into desired cell type. The cells are then injected into the patient's tissue. If stem cells are foreign the patient's immune system has to be suppressed to ensure successful implementation of the cells. Lastly the cells need to be monitored to make sure they don't become cancerous.

Related Biology IB answers

All answers ▸

Explain the causes and consequences of sickle cell anaemia (5)


Describe how water is carried by the transpiration stream (7)


How does the oxygenated and deoxygenated blood travel throughout the heart?


Compare and contrast the structure and functions of DNA and RNA.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences