About The Study: This is the first report of whole eye transplant combined with facial transplant, demonstrating allograft survival including rejection-free graft survival and electroretinographic measurements indicating retinal response to light stimuli. These data highlight the potential for clinical allotransplantation for globe loss. The successful revascularization of the transplanted eye achieved in this study may serve as a step towards the goal of globe transplant for restoration of vision.
Quote from corresponding author Eduardo D. Rodriguez, MD, DDS:
“The study reveals clinical outcomes from the past year following the world’s first whole-eye and partial-face transplant, highlighting promising initial results, and establishing a foundation for future advancements.
“While the recipient has not regained vision, the transplanted eye has maintained normal pressure, good blood flow, and some remaining structure and functions in the retina. Many experts did not think we would even be here, but we’ve successfully transplanted and maintained an eye without immune rejection.
“Now, the next challenge is understanding how to restore sight. I look forward to continuing this research in collaboration across academia to accelerate these discoveries with unique tools and the best therapies.”
Contact information for Eduardo D. Rodriguez, MD, DDS: email Katie Ullman at kathryn.ullman@nyulangone.org.
To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.jamanetwork.com/
(doi:10.1001/jama.2024.12601)
Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.
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Journal
JAMA