Regeneration and transplantation of the optic nerve: developing a clinical strategy.

Three separate experimental models of optic nerve regeneration have been presented--along the existing pathway in the presence of antibodies to neutralise inhibitory molecules, along peripheral nerve grafts and from retinal transplants. Each offers a theoretical clinical strategy for restoration of vision, if the mechanism of re-establishment of maps and reconnection to appropriate targets during regeneration can be determined. This is the process of axon guidance, and underlines the importance of our research into the molecular determinants that guide normal development of the visual system.