Photo AI
In 2018, a newspaper headline suggested that a cure for blindness had been found - OCR Gateway - GCSE Biology - Question 19 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 19
In 2018, a newspaper headline suggested that a cure for blindness had been found. The newspaper was reporting on a study looking at operations in patients with age-... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 2018, a newspaper headline suggested that a cure for blindness had been found - OCR Gateway - GCSE Biology - Question 19 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the role of the retina and suggest why damage to this part of the eye could cause blindness.
Answer
The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue that plays a crucial role in vision. It contains photoreceptors known as rods and cones, which convert light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. Damage to the retina can lead to partial or total loss of vision because, without proper signal transmission, the brain cannot interpret visual information correctly. For example, damage can lead to scenarios where images are not detected at all, resulting in blindness.
Step 2
Step 3
Explain why the newspaper headline claim of a cure may be misleading.
Answer
The claim of a cure may be misleading because improvements in eyesight do not necessarily equate to a complete restoration of vision or a permanent cure for AMD. The study involved only two individuals, and while their eyesight improved, it does not guarantee similar outcomes for all patients. Furthermore, the effects of the treatment could be temporary, and long-term efficacy and safety are still unknown at this stage.
Step 4
Suggest one other factor the researchers need to find out before this treatment is made widely available to all people with AMD.
Answer
One other factor that researchers need to investigate is the long-term safety and effectiveness of stem cell treatment in a larger and more diverse patient population. This includes understanding potential side effects, risks of complications, and the durability of the vision improvements over time.