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The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Abstract

Retinal degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide due to the retina’s inability to regenerate specialized cells after injury or stress. This study examines the potential for retinal regeneration by assessing current research on Müller glial cell differentiation and stem cell-based treatments. An analysis of experimental studies and therapeutic advancements highlights the mechanisms observed in regenerative models such as zebrafish and chicks, in contrast to the reactive gliosis and glial scarring observed in humans. Findings suggest that therapies such as optogenetics and stem cell transplantation have partially restored vision; however, their limitations stem from an inability to fully reestablish the complex cellular architecture and synaptic connections which are required for functional vision. Further research is necessary to overcome these barriers and advance the potential for vision restoration through retinal regeneration.

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