New computer modeling could help scientists better understand how the retina regenerates, opening the door to new treatments for vision loss, researchers from the UK’s University of Surrey say.

The first-of-its-kind “virtual retina” details how the retina can build its complex structure from just one type of stem cell, deepening understanding of how sight develops and how it is affected by injury or disease.

The research team has simulated key stages of retinogenesis, the process by which identical progenitor cells diversify into the six types of neurons that make up the retina.

Using the BioDynaMo software platform, the team modeled virtual “cells” that grow, divide, and make fate decisions based on internal gene-regulation logic, mimicking biological behavior. Researchers tested different network designs for how genes might interact when cells decide what kind of neuron to become.

Two particular designs, called the Reentry and Multidirectional models, reproduced real biological data most accurately, suggesting that retinal cells may make their fate decisions through overlapping and flexible genetic pathways, rather than a fixed sequence.

“Computational modeling gives us a powerful way to explore biological processes we can’t easily observe in real time,” said Roman Bauer, PhD, senior lecturer in computational biology at the University of Surrey. “By simulating every cell’s decision and interaction, we can test hypotheses about how tissues like the retina form—and how to restore them when damaged.”

The approach could help researchers better understand not only healthy eye development but also what happens in retinal diseases and in exploring how stem cells might rebuild tissue.

More News

Want to Read Locked Articles?

Already Have an Account?

Register A Corporate Account

Topics of Interest

Products of Interest