A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine highlights advancements in treating vision loss related to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Several dozen patients with progressive vision impairment regained some central vision using a combination of a retinal implant and smart glasses. The study included participants aged 60 and above, all of whom had been diagnosed with AMD in both eyes and possessed significant visual impairment as measured by visual acuity.
AMD is a progressive condition characterized by the degeneration of retinal cells, leading to irreversible vision loss in the central field. The researchers aimed to restore some lost vision by implanting a small device composed of photovoltaic solar panels, measuring 2×2 millimeters, under the retina. Accompanying smart glasses equipped with a camera were used to capture and transmit zoomed-in images to the implant. The retinal device then stimulated the optic nerve with small electrical signals, simulating the natural function of retinal cells.
Initially, 38 patients received the retinal implant, with 32 completing a one-year follow-up. At this one-year mark, 26 out of the 32 participants demonstrated improved vision, resulting in an 80% success rate. However, it is important to note that the vision obtained through this technology was reportedly blurry and limited to black and white.
The underlying technology originates from Science Corporation, a brain-computer interface company founded by Max Hodak, who also co-founded Neuralink. The retinal implant technology was acquired from the French medical device firm Pixium Vision in 2024 after the company faced financial difficulties despite a decade of work on the project. Similar challenges have been encountered by other companies in the field, leading to the continuation of clinical trials through collaborations with new firms.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/802905/eye-implant-smart-glasses-restores-vision