Breakthrough Implant Restores Reading and Puzzle-Solving Abilities for Vision Loss Patients

Breaking News: Retina Implant Enables Vision Loss Patients to Read and Do Crosswords In a groundbreaking development, Science Corporation has acquired the PRIMA vision implant from Pixium Vision, allowing patients with macular degeneration to read text and complete crosswords. According to a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine today, the implant's artificial vision capabilities have been successfully tested on several patients. Timeline: The device was developed by Pixium Vision, a French startup cofounded by University of Pittsburgh vision scientist José-Alain Sahel. Last year, Pixium Vision faced bankruptcy due to financial struggles. Science Corporation purchased the company's assets for approximately $4 million in a fire-sale deal. Advanced testing of the PRIMA implant has been ongoing since then. Immediate Impact: The magnitude of the effect is unprecedented, says Dr. Sahel. One patient in the UK has reportedly read pages from a regular book, a feat previously unimaginable for those with macular degeneration. This breakthrough has sparked hope for millions affected by vision loss worldwide. Background Context: Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss among elderly people. The PRIMA implant uses a microelectronic chip placed under the retina to bypass damaged photoreceptor cells. A camera mounted on glasses sends signals to the chip, which emits bursts of electricity to stimulate artificial vision. What Happens Next: As Science Corporation continues to develop and refine the PRIMA implant, experts predict widespread adoption in the coming years. This technology has far-reaching implications for society, potentially transforming the lives of millions with vision loss. Further research will focus on expanding the device's capabilities and making it more accessible to those in need. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Technologyreview reporting.*