Transforming mouth tissue into eye tissue for vision restoration
Implementation of a Protocol for the Transdifferentiation of Buccal Mucosal Epithelium Into Corneal Epithelium
This study is trying to see if we can turn cells from the inside of the mouth into eye cells to help people with vision problems caused by a condition called Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 4 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Montpellier Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Montpellier, Occitanie) |
| Trial ID | NCT06265298 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to develop a protocol for converting buccal mucosal epithelium into corneal epithelium to address Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency (LSCD), a condition that impairs vision due to the loss of corneal integrity. The approach involves isolating and culturing stem cells from the oral cavity and transdifferentiating them into limbal stem cells. The study seeks to validate this innovative method as a potential alternative to current grafting techniques, which carry significant risks. By establishing a reliable protocol, the research hopes to provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients suffering from LSCD.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals requiring conjunctival reconstruction due to conditions like recurrent pterygium, conjunctival carcinoma, or ocular burns.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic infections, oral pathologies affecting mucosal health, uncontrolled systemic diseases, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a novel and safer treatment for patients with Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency, potentially restoring their vision.
How similar studies have performed: While studies have shown the potential of using oral cavity stem cells for corneal regeneration, this specific protocol is novel and has not yet been validated.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Presenting an indication for conjunctival reconstruction using oral mucosa (for example because of a recurrent pterygium, conjunctival carcinoma or ocular burn) * Written consent to participate in this research Exclusion Criteria: * Chronic infection (HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, Lyme disease) * Oral pathology which could affect the health of the oral mucosa tissue according to the opinion of the investigating doctor * Uncontrolled systemic disease * Pregnant or breastfeeding
Where this trial is running
Montpellier, Occitanie
- CHU Gui de Chauliac - Service d'Ophtamologie — Montpellier, Occitanie, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Vincent Daien, MD PhD
- Email: v-daien@chu-montpellier.fr
- Phone: 04 67 33 69 66
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.