This type of research bypasses the damaged photoreceptors and uses the intact neural cells instead. A light-sensitive protein is delivered to one of the neural layers – usually the ganglion cells.

BIONIC SIGHT for RP

This is a very exciting development from Dr Sheila Nirenberg, who has spent 10 years decoding the retinal messaging system. Her latest clinical trial is testing her Optobionic molecule BSO1 without a coding device. This is a single intravitreal injection which improves the sensitivity of the ganglion cells.

OPTOBIONIC BSO1

ChronosFP is an enhanced, light-sensitive channel rhodopsin protein, a type of microbial opsin. It is delivered to the ganglion cells using an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector via an intravitreal injection. Ganglion cells usually survive despite severe photoreceptor degeneration. The ganglion cells express the ChronosFP protein, embedding it into the cell membranes. The protein acts as a light-sensitive ion channel which allows the ganglion cells to respond to weak signals from the remaining photoreceptors. Participants have shown improvements in visual acuity, field of vision and are able to negotiate a maze, even in reduced light. This exciting intervention may be available in a few years. The original trial that includes an optical decoder will assist people with more severe vision loss. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WQgixZjOW4