Stem cell researchers, hoping to save children with genetic defects from slowly becoming blind, will receive federal government support.
Health Minister Greg Hunt says the government is giving Stem Cells Australia $3 million to fund a number of research projects involving the cutting-edge technology.
One of the first studies will investigate preventing children from going blind by modifying genetic mutations in their eyes, and will involve building models of the human eye from patients' cells.
Another study will aim to repair and reconstruct the tissues of children with congenital heart defects
Mr Hunt said both conditions can cause "enormous suffering" for affected children and their families.
Program leader at Stem Cell Australia, a research group administered by the University of Melbourne, Professor Melissa Little, said the government's investment will go a long way.
"This funding will enable researchers at Stem Cells Australia to apply their knowledge in key areas of unmet medical need, which will benefit people well into the future," she said in a statement.
