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.