Restoring Sight

May 29, 2009 | Source: Technology Review

Scientists aim to treat retinitis pigmentosa by developing novel gene therapies using channelrhodopsin-2 (a light-sensitive protein derived from algae) and similar tools to make different retinal cells, such as bipolar cells (shown in pink in the middle section of the photo), responsive to light.

(Steve Gschmeissner/Photo Researchers)

(Steve Gschmeissner/Photo Researchers)

Scientists believe that channelrhodopsin targeted toward different cell types could ultimately treat a broader range of diseases, including Parkinson’s and epilepsy.