After 20 years of dedicated research, scientists from the Boston Retinal Implant Project have developed a bionic eye implant designed to restore partial vision for individuals with severe retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. Co-led by Dr. Joseph Rizzo III of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and MIT Professor John Wyatt, the implant is about the size of a pencil eraser and connects to the brain via a hair-thin wire.
Though it won’t restore full sight, this innovative device will allow users to detect shapes, movement, and obstacles—significantly improving mobility and independence. The implant is mostly external, has passed rigorous durability tests, and is on track for FDA-approved human trials in the near future. Engineers have worked to ensure it is corrosion-resistant and long-lasting. In the future, it could even help users recognize objects and faces.
Credit: Post Image from Hashem Al-Ghaili / Science Nature Page