How do golden apple snails regenerate their eyes according to the Nature Communications study?

The study shows snails regenerate eyes through precise genetic processes, activating genes for wound healing, cell growth, and retinal cell formation.

What is CRISPR and how is it used for eye diseases by the L.V. Prasad Eye Institute?

CRISPR is a gene-editing technology used by scientists at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute to correct genetic eye diseases like LCA in zebrafish models.

Are there human trials using CRISPR for vision improvement like the Harvard University team's?

Yes, human trials, including one by Harvard University, are using CRISPR to treat inherited blindness and have shown improved vision.

Home / Science / Snails Hold Key to Human Eye Regeneration?

Snails Hold Key to Human Eye Regeneration?

12 Dec

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Summary

Snails can regenerate damaged eyes through complex genetic processes.
CRISPR technology corrects genetic eye diseases in lab models.
Early human trials show improved vision using gene editing.

Snails Hold Key to Human Eye Regeneration?

The extraordinary ability of golden apple snails to regenerate lost eyes is shedding light on potential human healing pathways. When a snail loses an eye, a cascade of genetic activity initiates, beginning with wound repair and progressing to the formation of new retinal cells and photoreceptors. Genes like PAX6 play a crucial role in this molecular choreography.

This natural regeneration phenomenon is not unique to snails; other creatures like axolotls and planaria also exhibit remarkable repair capabilities. Scientists are leveraging this understanding, particularly with advanced gene-editing tools like CRISPR, to address genetic eye diseases. Promising results have been observed in animal models and early human clinical trials.

These advancements represent a significant step in regenerative medicine, moving from observing animal regeneration to potentially reactivating dormant repair programs within human cells. The ongoing decoding of these ancient biological blueprints offers hope for restoring vision and treating other irreparable conditions through molecular understanding.