Restoring vision for blind individuals using retinal implants
Restoring Sight to the Blind: Neural Imaging with Retinal Prostheses
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11042466
This study is exploring how special devices can help people who are blind see again by sending signals to their eyes, and it aims to learn more about how the brain adapts to blindness so that these devices can work better for everyone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11042466 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how retinal prostheses can restore sight to blind individuals by electrically stimulating viable retinal cells. The prostheses consist of a microstimulator array connected to the retina, which receives video input from a camera mounted on glasses. The study aims to understand the sensory reorganization that occurs in the brain during blindness, which affects how well patients can utilize these devices. By using neural imaging techniques, the research seeks to improve patient selection for these visual restoration devices and enhance their effectiveness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are blind and may benefit from retinal prostheses, particularly those with viable retinal cells.
Not a fit: Patients with complete retinal degeneration or those whose blindness is not due to retinal issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the visual capabilities of blind patients using retinal prostheses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in restoring basic visual functions with retinal prostheses, indicating that this approach has potential for further advancements.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STILES, NOELLE — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: STILES, NOELLE
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.