Japanese Government Approves Stem Cell Trials

Scientist hoping to use the cells to treat a form of blindness

The first trial of stem cells produced from a patient's own body has been approved by the Japanese government.

Stem cells can become any other part of the body—from nerve to bone to skin—and are touted as the future of medicine.

Researchers in Japan will use the cells to attempt to treat a form of blindness—age-related macular degeneration.

The announcement was described as "a major step forward" for research in the field.