| Abstract Scope |
LambdaVision has developed a protein-based artificial retina to restore meaningful vision for patients with degenerative eye diseases. Preclinical evaluation of the technology demonstrated the ability to stimulate degenerated retinal tissue and safely insert the implant into the subretinal space of animals. These milestones provide a foundation for a biohybrid application that has demonstrated photodetection and neuronal cell stimulation. The artificial retina utilizes a light-activated transmembrane protein, bacteriorhodopsin, which is integrated into a thin film with a synthetic scaffold support via layer-by-layer electrostatic deposition. The unique photochemistry and function of the protein has been exploited for many years as a bionanomaterial for bioelectronic device applications, including three-dimensional optical memories, holographic associative processors, photovoltaic solar cells, and biosensors. Through microgravity-enabled manufacturing, we have demonstrated an improvement in our thin film quality, enhancing the potential for commercializing new biohybrid technologies, both for clinical and bioelectronic applications. |