Bone marrow-derived cells in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: contribution and potential application

Ophthalmic Res. 2011;45(1):1-4. doi: 10.1159/000313983. Epub 2010 Aug 11.

Abstract

Neovascular age-related macular degeneration, characterized by the formation of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), is a predominant cause of serious loss of vision. The pathogenesis of CNV is complex and still imperfectly understood. Prior studies have shown that bone marrow-derived cells (BMC) play a role in CNV. In this review article, we describe the contribution of BMC to CNV development, and discuss the potential use of BMC in the anticipation and treatment of CNV-associated diseases as well as research needs in the future.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Marrow Cells / pathology*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Macular Degeneration / etiology*