Researchers were able to restore vision in blind mice by treating their severed optic nerves with a variety of chemicals then exposing them to visual stimulus.
Many of Earth’s creatures have the power of brain cell regeneration, but, unfortunately, mammals are generally not among them.
A team of researchers from Stanford University has discovered a highly promising workaround for that shortcoming, reports Sky News.
They were able to restore vision in blind mice by treating their severed optic nerves with a variety of chemicals that coaxed the at-rest nervous system into action.
The researchers then exposed the rodents to numerous high-contrast and moving images.
According to Andrew Huberman, one of the scientists involved, later testing showed, "Several dozen mice had vision restored to varying degrees."
The team says that the method needs more development before its suitability for use on humans is determined, notes LiveScience.
Thus far, they believe it could be a treatment for reversing vision loss related to glaucoma.
Scientific American is reporting that the means may also be helpful in aiding those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
