autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells (Al-Azhar University)

This investigational autologous cell therapy involves the harvesting of stem cells from a patient's own bone marrow, which are then processed and administered via intravitreal injection. Developed by Al-Azhar University, the therapy is specifically targeted at treating geographic atrophy secondary to dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The mechanism of action is primarily attributed to paracrine effects, where the injected cells secrete various neurotrophic and growth factors that help rescue and support degenerating retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor cells, potentially slowing the progression of vision loss. Unlike direct cell replacement, this approach focuses on the trophic support of existing retinal tissue to prevent further atrophy.

Other names

autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cellsBMSCs