Optic nerve regeneration: Is it possible? - American Academy of Ophthalmology

Optic nerve regeneration: Is it possible? - American Academy of Ophthalmology: "A recent study by Cho et al suggests that a better understanding of factors inhibiting retinal ganglion cell axonal growth may ultimately lead to successful restoration of the regenerative potential of the optic nerve.

In a mouse optic nerve injury model, Cho et al demonstrated that a change in expression of Bcl-2 (an anti-apoptotic gene) and inhibition of astrocyte scar tissue formation led to rapid axonal regeneration over long distances and to reinnervation of the brain targets by a majority of the severed optic nerve fibers. They plan further study to learn whether the newly regenerated axons are physiologically intact and capable of transmitting visual information.

The findings suggest future possible mechanisms by which to reverse the loss of vision and visual field due to optic nerve damage from trauma or ischemia.

REFERENCE

Cho KS, Yang L, Lu B, et al. Re-establishing the regenerative potential of central nervous system axons in postnatal mice. J Cell Sci. 2005;118:863–872."