Researchers have successfully tested retinal implants made of tellurium meshes in macaques,demonstrating the potential to restore vision and even grant the ability to perceive infrared light. The study, conducted by the Fudan team, marks a significant step toward advanced visual prosthetics for humans.

The implanted macaques were able to perceive infrared light without any negative impact on their existing vision. This suggests a pathway to augmented reality applications and treatments for specific vision impairments.

Sensitivity and adaptation

One of the challenges identified by the Fudan team is the lower light sensitivity of tellurium meshes compared to natural photoreceptors. This raises questions about their suitability for retinal prostheses. Assessing the subjective visual experience of animal models remains a hurdle in vision science,making it challenging to fully understand how the brain interprets signals from the implants.

“the Fudan team’s work on tellurium retinal implants is published in Science.”

The experiments revealed that implanted animals reacted to light, even though less effectively than those with normal vision. An adaptation period was also necessary, as the animals needed time to learn how to interpret the new signals from their eyes. The use of lasers in shape recognition tests also leaves questions about the implant’s performance under normal daylight conditions.

Surgical Considerations

The implantation procedure involves a local retinal detachment and a small incision to insert the implant. According to Eduardo Fernández, a bioengineer, this carries risks of fibrosis and scarring, especially in fragile retinas. Despite these concerns, Fernández considers the implants “promising.” The Fudan team is currently focused on long-term safety evaluations in primates and improving the connection between the retina and the implant.