The first clinical study using retinal progenitor stem cells for the treatment of advanced retinitis pigmentosa has just begun at the University of California Irvine (UCI) . These cells are retina-specific stem cells. It is a phase 1/2a study designed to test the safety and efficacy of retinal progenitor cells injected into the vitreous cavity at two different dosage levels in patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa. To date, four patients with retinitis pigmentosa have received injections of these cells. Recruitment is underway for a total of 16 patients, with participants who will be followed for 12 months, during which safety and efficacy parameters will be monitored. The first results of this promising study in 12/24 months. As soon as the first results are available we will publish them on this site. Dr. Badala maintains close collaborative contacts with the University of California.