Nanowire Arrays Restore Vision in Blind Mice

In summary, scientists have developed artificial photoreceptors using gold nanoparticle-decorated titania nanowire arrays to restore visual responses in blind mice with degenerated photoreceptors. This allows for green, blue, and near UV light responses in retinal ganglion cells with a spatial resolution of 100 µm. The remaining retinal circuits are also preserved, as shown by the blocking of ON responses with glutamatergic antagonists. Neurons in the primary visual cortex respond to light after subretinal implantation of the nanowire arrays, and the pupillary light reflex improves, indicating behavioral recovery of light sensitivity. This development has potential for the creation of new optoelectronic tools for subretinal prosthetic
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Drakkith
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Abstract:
The restoration of light response with complex spatiotemporal features in retinal degenerative diseases towards retinal prosthesis has proven to be a considerable challenge over the past decades. Herein, inspired by the structure and function of photoreceptors in retinas, we develop artificial photoreceptors based on gold nanoparticle-decorated titania nanowire arrays, for restoration of visual responses in the blind mice with degenerated photoreceptors. Green, blue and near UV light responses in the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are restored with a spatial resolution better than 100 µm. ON responses in RGCs are blocked by glutamatergic antagonists, suggesting functional preservation of the remaining retinal circuits. Moreover, neurons in the primary visual cortex respond to light after subretinal implant of nanowire arrays. Improvement in pupillary light reflex suggests the behavioral recovery of light sensitivity. Our study will shed light on the development of a new generation of optoelectronic toolkits for subretinal prosthetic devices.

Paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-03212-0

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Soon I'll get my X-Ray eyes... :biggrin:
 
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Instead of wired for sound, some of us may get wired for sight. Very cool.
 
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How about using impregnated silk as a substrate?
 
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manifespo said:
How about using impregnated silk as a substrate?

I'm not familiar with impregnated silk. Do you have some reason to believe that it would work here?
 

What are nanowire arrays and how do they restore vision in blind mice?

Nanowire arrays are tiny, conductive wires that are arranged in a specific pattern to mimic the structure of a retina. In blind mice, these nanowire arrays are implanted into the retina and serve as a replacement for damaged photoreceptor cells. The nanowires can detect light and stimulate the remaining healthy retinal cells, allowing the mice to perceive images.

Has this technology been tested on humans?

No, this technology has only been tested on blind mice in a laboratory setting. More research and testing is needed before it can be considered for human use.

What are the potential benefits of using nanowire arrays to restore vision?

The use of nanowire arrays could potentially restore vision in individuals who have lost their sight due to retinal diseases or injuries. It could also be a less invasive and more effective alternative to current treatments, such as retinal implants or gene therapy.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with this technology?

As with any new medical technology, there are potential risks and side effects that need to be thoroughly studied. Some concerns include the potential for the nanowires to trigger an immune response or cause damage to the retina. More research is needed to fully understand the safety and effectiveness of nanowire arrays for vision restoration.

What is the future of this technology and its potential impact on blindness?

The use of nanowire arrays to restore vision is still in its early stages of research and development. However, if successful, it could have a significant impact on individuals who are blind or visually impaired. It could potentially lead to a more accessible, affordable, and effective treatment for various types of vision loss.

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