Is there any research into growth factors and inherited sight loss?
Growth factors are substances that promote the health and function of cells and tissues in the body. They are made by the body to sustain and repair itself and have important roles in cell survival. Many research groups are investigating growth factors either when used alone, or in combination with other therapies, such as stem cell therapy and gene therapy, in the treatment of retinal diseases.
Work is advancing on discovering new growth factors, on understanding how they influence retinal cells, their role in different retinal diseases and on developing methods for delivering growth factors to the eye. This may result in new avenues for therapy, in addition to other growth factors being investigated in clinical trials using a similar approach to that used for CNTF (Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor).
Further information on growth factors and CNTF can be found on the Retina UK website.
