Investigating how brain stimulation can help restore vision in blind individuals
Studying stimulation of long-range cortical projections involved in visual-spatial behavior in non-human primates with a novel multimodal optoelectronic device
This study is looking at how to help people who have lost their sight by using a special device to stimulate the brain and create visual sensations, and it's being tested on monkeys first to find ways that could eventually help humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11066870 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how to stimulate specific brain connections to produce visual sensations in individuals with acquired blindness. Using a novel optoelectronic device, researchers will explore the biophysical mechanisms of cortical stimulation and its effects on behavior. The study will involve non-human primates to develop techniques that could eventually translate to human applications. By optimizing viral delivery methods and enhancing stimulation technologies, the goal is to create a reliable cortical visual prosthesis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with acquired blindness who have an intact visual cortex but lack functional vision.
Not a fit: Patients with congenital blindness or those whose visual cortex has been significantly damaged may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore vision for individuals suffering from acquired blindness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar optogenetic approaches for neural stimulation, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Royce — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Dong, Royce
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.