Novel Nanofilm May Be Artificial Retina Precursor

Researchers have used advanced nanotechnology techniques to develop a light-sensitive film that has potential for future artificial retina applications.

Investigators at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (Israel) created a semiconductor nanorod-carbon nanotube based platform for wire-free, light induced retina stimulation. A plasma polymerized acrylic acid midlayer was used to achieve covalent conjugation of semiconductor nanorods directly onto neuro-adhesive, three-dimensional carbon nanotube surfaces. The nanofilm transforms visual cues to electric signals, mimicking the function of the photo-sensitive cells in the retina.

The new device, which absorbed light and stimulated neurons without wires or an external power source, was tested on light-insensitive retinas from embryonic chicks.

Results published in the October 28, 2014, online edition of the journal Nano Letters revealed that the implanted nanomembrane stimulated a neuronal response in the embryonic chick embryos following exposure to light.

Contributing author Dr. Uri Banin, professor of chemistry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, said, "This is a pioneering work demonstrating the use of highly tailored semiconductor nanocrystals in activation of biomedical functionalities. We hope this can lead to future implementation of this approach in retinal implants."

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