This is sci-fi. A new study reported by the Associated Press shows early promise for the first bio-artificial cornea created out of collagen the same tissue that makes up the eye’s natural cornea.

Scientists have found that by using a synthetically generated collagen inserted into the damaged corneal layers spurs the eye’s natural corneal-cells to regenerate the cornea made out of collagen resulting in restoring the eye’s vision. So, really they are inducing the eye to rebuild the damaged cornea from within rather than replace it with a donated transplant, which is the traditional treatment for a damaged cornea.

Vision depends on the cornea to reflect light to the retina and unfortunately this part of the eye is often most susceptible to infection and injury. More than 42,000 people in America need a corneal transplant, yet these are not readily available due to a poor supply of donated corneas. This study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine. Researchers in Sweden implanted a bio-artificial cornea in 10 patients and none suffered rejection, one of the risks of donated transplant. In fact, there were no side effects of the eye rejecting the foreign body or even having to inject the eye with an anti-immune suppressant. Even more amazing was that after this collagen bio-artificial cornea that looks similar to a contact lens was implanted, the corneal cells, began regenerating and regulating natural function of the cornea such as tear production, re-growth of corneal nerves and return of sensitivity. Two years later, six patients showed significant improvement on their vision.

To find out more about corneal transplants and restoring your vision, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman, renowned corneal and refractive surgeon in San Diego, is available for a consult.