Corneas made from pig collagen have restored sight for people who were previously legally blind or visually impaired. Two years after the operations, none of the recipients have reported serious complications or adverse side effects.
More than 12 million people around the world have corneal blindness, which can occur when the eyes’ clear, protective outer layer becomes cloudy or misshapen from damage or disease. Because corneal transplants currently require a human donor, only 1 out of every 70 people in need of care receive one. In many lower-income nations, the cost of the operation further complicates access to treatment.
Image: The cornea made from pig collagen THOR BALKHED/LINKÖPING UNIVERSITY
