Transplanted embryonic retinal stem cells have the potential to repair the injured retina in mice

Abstract Background Stem cell transplantation has been reported as one of the promising strategies to treat retinal degenerative diseases. But, application and role retina stem cells (RSCs) in treatment patients with diseases have not fully revealed. This study aimed investigate potential embryo-derived RSCs into vitreous cavity repairing damaged mice. Methods were isolated from Kunming mice E17 embryonic ciliary body tissues, labeled 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridin (BrdU). Retinal optic nerve crush injury was induced left eyes male by ring clamping nerve. The 6th -generation BrdU-labeled transplanted intravitreal injection, saline injected used control. Hematoxylin eosin histological staining, BrdU, Nestin Pax6 immunostaining performed. Electroretinogram (ERG) for assessing electrical activity retina. Results Embryo-derived identified positive stains Nestin. BrdU incorporation detected majority RSCs. showed cellular nuclear disintegration fragmentation tissue which progressed over periods time, decreased amplitudes a b waves ERG. In transplantation, staining revealed on surface. Notably, migrated ganglion layer inner nuclear. Transplanted significantly elevated injured eyes. Conclusions Embryonic similar characteristics neural cells. Transplantation injection would be able repair