Ophthalmology Stem Cell Lab

Our Vision

Our lab’s vision is to develop innovative, transformative solutions through the use of stem cells, biomaterials, and tissue engineering to regenerate the retina and restore vision. By integrating cutting-edge technologies such as 3D bioprinting, hydrogel-based delivery systems, and stem cell biology, we aim to address unmet clinical needs in ophthalmology.

We are dedicated to bridging the gap between fundamental scientific discoveries and clinical application, ensuring our research translates into tangible benefits for patients. Through multidisciplinary collaboration, we strive to advance the understanding of retinal diseases, optic nerve repair, and pathological conditions like myopia, fostering a new era of regenerative ophthalmology.

Our Team

  • Adiel Barak, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, TASMC; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University
  • Maxim Bez, MD PhD, Department of Ophthalmology, TASMC; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University
  • Ohad Cohen, MSc

  • Diana Merezhko, PhD candidate

Researchers

  • Aya Barzelay-Wollman, MD PhD
  • Bryan Krief, PhD
  • Itay Nakdimon, PhD
  • Moshe Benhemou, MSc

Students

  • Dorit Eliyaev, MSc
  • Yahel Shechter, MSc

Research

for Retinal Regeneration

Retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, lead to irreversible vision loss due to the loss of photoreceptors and supporting structures. Current treatments are limited and do not restore lost vision. This project focuses on developing 3D-printed retinal implants personalized to individual patients. By utilizing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we aim to create a functional, multilayered structure mimicking the photoreceptors, Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE), and choroid. The implants are designed to integrate seamlessly with host tissue to restore visual function.

for Optic Nerve Regeneration

Optic nerve injuries caused by trauma, glaucoma, or ischemia result in vision impairment due to irreversible damage to retinal ganglion cell axons. Current treatments focus on preventing further damage rather than repairing the nerve.
This project develops bioactive and biocompatible injectable hydrogels incorporated with patient-derived retinal cells to provide a scaffold for axonal growth. These hydrogels are engineered to create a supportive microenvironment for optic nerve repair and functional recovery.

Adipose Stem Cells for Retinal Regeneration

Stem cells derived from orbital adipose tissue present a promising, easily accessible source for regenerative therapies in ophthalmology. Their potential to differentiate into retinal cell types and contribute to tissue repair remains underexplored. This study aims to isolate and characterize orbital-derived adipose stem cells (OASCs), assess their differentiation potential into retinal lineages, and evaluate their therapeutic efficacy in preclinical models of retinal degeneration.

in the Pathogenesis of Pathological Myopia

Pathological myopia is a leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, characterized by excessive elongation of the eye and associated structural changes, particularly in the sclera. However, the underlying mechanisms of scleral thinning and weakening are not well understood. This project investigates the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and biomechanical changes in the sclera during the progression of myopia. Insights gained will guide the development of novel therapeutic strategies to inhibit myopia progression by targeting scleral ECM pathways.

Highlighted Publications

Sequential Fabrication of a Three-Layer Retina-like Structure.
Shechter Y, Cohen R, Namestnikov M, Shapira A, Barak A, Barzelay A, Dvir T. Gels. 2024 May 15;10(5):336.
Regenerative Effect of Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Ganglion Cells in the Hypoxic Organotypic Retina Culture.
Dov MB, Krief B, Benhamou M, Klein A, Schwartz S, Loewenstein A, Barak A, Barzelay A. Int J Stem Cells. 2023 May 30;16(2):244-249.
Retinal Lineage Therapeutic Specific Effect of Human Orbital and Abdominal Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells.
Krief B, Algor SW, Nakdimon I, Elhikis A, Benhamou M, Kadmon AS, Keren S, Ohana O, Feldman I, Cnaan RB, Leibovitch I, Loewenstein A, Barak A, Barzelay A. Stem Cells Int. 2021 Oct 19;2021:7022247.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Migrate and Rescue RPE in the Setting of Oxidative Stress.
Barzelay A, Weisthal Algor S, Niztan A, Katz S, Benhamou M, Nakdimon I, Azmon N, Gozlan S, Mezad-Koursh D, Neudorfer M, Goldstein M, Meilik B, Loewenstein A, Barak A. Stem Cells Int. 2018 Dec 13;2018:9682856.