Liquid-metal-based three-dimensional microelectrode arrays integrated with implantable ultrathin retinal prosthesis for vision restoration

Liquid-metal-based three-dimensional microelectrode arrays integrated with implantable ultrathin retinal prosthesis for vision restoration

15 January 2024 | Won Gi Chung, Jiuk Jang, Gang Cui, Sanghoon Lee, Han Jeong, Haisu Kang, Hunkyu Seo, Sumin Kim, Enji Kim, Junwon Lee, Seung Geol Lee, Suk Ho Byeon, Jang-Ung Park
This article presents a soft artificial retina designed for vision restoration in patients with retinal degenerative diseases. The retina is 10 μm thick and integrates flexible ultrathin photosensitive transistors with three-dimensional (3D) liquid-metal (LM) stimulation electrodes. The LM electrodes, made of gallium-indium alloy, are soft and have a low Young's modulus, minimizing damage to the delicate retina. Platinum nanoclusters are locally coated on the tips of these electrodes to enhance charge injection into retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Machine learning is used to analyze the evoked spikes from RGCs, providing insights into neural activities. In vivo experiments on a mouse model of retinal degeneration show that the device can induce real-time responses in RGCs under localized illumination, suggesting potential for vision restoration. The 3D LM microelectrodes offer improved selectivity and spatial resolution compared to rigid electrodes, reducing the activation threshold and enhancing the stimulation of target cells. The device's biocompatibility and effectiveness in restoring vision in live mice highlight its potential for personalized artificial retinal applications.This article presents a soft artificial retina designed for vision restoration in patients with retinal degenerative diseases. The retina is 10 μm thick and integrates flexible ultrathin photosensitive transistors with three-dimensional (3D) liquid-metal (LM) stimulation electrodes. The LM electrodes, made of gallium-indium alloy, are soft and have a low Young's modulus, minimizing damage to the delicate retina. Platinum nanoclusters are locally coated on the tips of these electrodes to enhance charge injection into retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Machine learning is used to analyze the evoked spikes from RGCs, providing insights into neural activities. In vivo experiments on a mouse model of retinal degeneration show that the device can induce real-time responses in RGCs under localized illumination, suggesting potential for vision restoration. The 3D LM microelectrodes offer improved selectivity and spatial resolution compared to rigid electrodes, reducing the activation threshold and enhancing the stimulation of target cells. The device's biocompatibility and effectiveness in restoring vision in live mice highlight its potential for personalized artificial retinal applications.
Reach us at info@study.space