Restoring 3D vision using brain stimulation techniques
Official title: Manipulation of 3D object perception with mid-level cortical micro-stimulation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11039073 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how gently stimulating certain parts of the brain can help improve the way we see 3D objects, and it's being tested on macaque monkeys to find better solutions for people who need help with their vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY037065-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11039073 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are blind or have severe visual impairments and are seeking innovative solutions for vision restoration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact vision or those whose visual impairments are not related to the processing of 3D shapes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeted stimulation of specific areas in the brain can help restore the ability to perceive three-dimensional objects. By focusing on the intermediate and higher-level visual cortex, the study aims to manipulate the brain's natural coding of shapes to create a more effective prosthetic vision solution. The approach involves testing this stimulation in macaque monkeys to understand how it influences the perception of 3D shapes, which could lead to advancements in visual prosthetics for humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with vision loss by restoring their ability to perceive 3D objects.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using brain stimulation for vision restoration is being explored, this specific method targeting 3D shape perception is novel and has not been extensively tested in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Connor, Charles E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Connor, Charles E
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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.