Optic nerve restoration: new perspectives.

Neural regeneration and repair in the central nervous system are currently hot topics in neuroscience. For many years there has been a hope that neurodegenerative diseases which are resistant to current therapies may be treated by the selective replacement of cells. Yet it is only recently that we have started to acquire the knowledge, tools, and techniques that may translate such optimism into new therapies. In this article, we will consider the potential to restore function to the damaged optic nerve. We will consider the technical issues involved and suggest a strategy for research progress.