Implants for vision

February 14, 2002 | Source: Neuroscion (requires free registration)

Scientists have demonstrated that they can stimulate the visual cortex in the brain while bypassing the retina itself.
Several teams of scientists are trying to develop a device that would electrically stimulate the visual system in seeing-impaired individuals. Although serious problems must be overcome before a useful device is developed, a review in Science concludes that “a number of international groups are tackling the remaining problems associated with epiretinal and subretinal implants, and we await the outcome of clinical trials to determine the value of refined nanotechnology for treating blinding eye diseases.”

Science 295(5557):1022-1025