Invention:
This invention describes a method by which light sensitivity in the retina can be restored using gold nanoparticles after the photoreceptors have been degraded or damaged.
Background:
Traditional treatment for visual impairment can differ based on the cause of the impairment, but often includes eyeglasses, contact lenses, Lasik surgery, or simple quality of life (QOL) aids such as service dogs or canes. In many cases, visual impairment or blindness is not fixed or repaired, but mitigated as long as possible. This has left a large demand for some technology or therapeutic that can actually help patients suffering from visual impairment to restore vision or light sensitivity.
In this technology, the inventors propose a method that utilizes gold nanoparticles to restore light sensitivity in the retina following photoreceptor damage or degradation. These gold nanoparticles are conjugated to specific cellular targets to initiate action potentials and restore light sensitivity.
Applications:
- Treatment of visual impairment
Advantages:
- Restores light sensitivity
- Offers better alternative to rescue vision than current treatments
Status: issued U.S. patent #12,458,697
