Methods and systems for extended in vitro culture of neuronal cells

Abstract

A cell culture system related to extended in vitro culture of mature neuronal cells and methods for preparing the cell culture system are provided. In a preferred embodiment the invention provides a cell culture system comprising a mixture of mature neuronal retinal cells and cells isolated from a ciliary body. Methods for identifying bioactive agents that alter neurodegeneration of neuronal retinal cells are also provided.

1 .- 19 . (canceled) 
     
     
         20 . A method for treating a retinal disease comprising introducing isolated retinal stem cells into retinal tissue of a subject in need thereof. 
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 20  wherein the retinal disease is selected from the group consisting of macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, retinal blood vessel occlusion, retinitis pigmentosa, and a retinal disorder associated with Alzheimer's disease.