In a major achievement, the scientists have managed to get a patent for growing stem cells of the cornea. The cells will be grown on a synthetic material, called Mebiol Gel, which will be used in the process of transplant.

For a long time scientists across the world have been trying to get the patent. The declaration was made by the researchers at Sankara Nethralaya and Nichi-In Biosciences Sankara Nethralaya and Nichi-In Biosciences on Friday.

The new procedures have been devised and patented by these two institutes. A synthetic substance was used by the researchers for growing the corneal limbal stem cells in order to reduce the chances of viral infections. Moreover, biological materials have a greater chance of rejection.

The Mebiol Gelliquifies on cooling and accelerates the growth of cells. After the growth of sufficient cells, the culture dish is put in the refrigerator where the cells liquefy.

These cells were then introduced in the eyes of rabbits.

President, Vision Research Foundation, and Director and Professor of Microbiology, Sankara Nethralaya, Dr. H N Madhavan, disclosed that human tissues have been avoided for the growth of the cells in order to avoid the risk of rejection.

With this new technique it would be possible to cure the diseases like StevensJohnson Syndrome and corneal ulcers.