Summary:
The PRIMA retinal implant developed by Science Corporation represents a breakthrough in treating advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This 2mm photovoltaic BCI device, implanted beneath the retina, works with smart glasses to convert near-infrared light into electrical signals that stimulate the optic nerve. In a NEJM-published study, 26 of 32 participants regained measurable central vision within a year, enabling activities like reading text despite monochromatic, low-resolution output. Unlike previous AMD treatments that only slowed degeneration, this neuroprosthetic approach actively restores lost visual function while preserving natural peripheral vision.
What This Means for You:
- If diagnosed with late-stage AMD, consult your ophthalmologist about upcoming PRIMA clinical trials or CE/FDA approval timelines
- Prepare for vision rehabilitation – restored central vision requires neural adaptation periods averaging 3-6 months post-implantation
- Monitor Science Corporation’s enrollment criteria focusing on geographic atrophy patients with intact optic nerve function
- Note that current limitations include 20/460 visual acuity levels and monochromatic perception – future iterations may improve resolution
Original Post:
A landmark study in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated the PRIMA brain-computer interface (BCI) retinal implant restored central vision in patients with advanced AMD. The 30-micrometer photovoltaic implant works synergistically with augmented reality glasses featuring near-infrared projection capabilities.
The PRIMA implant works with smart glasses to bring central vision back to life (PRIMA by Science)
Among 38 participants, 80% achieved functional vision restoration, enabling letter recognition and text reading. The subretinal implantation procedure demonstrated favorable safety profiles with minimal impact on residual peripheral vision. Developed by Science Corporation (founded by Neuralink co-founder Max Hodak), this neuroprosthetic approach represents the first clinically validated solution for photoreceptor replacement in dry AMD.
The 2mm photovoltaic chip converts light to neural signals (PRIMA by Science)
Extra Information:
Full NEJM Study – Details clinical trial methodology and vision recovery metrics
Science Corporation – Developer’s roadmap for next-gen implants with improved resolution
AMD Foundation – Patient resources for advanced macular degeneration management
People Also Ask About:
- How long does PRIMA implantation surgery take? Typically 2-3 hours under local anesthesia.
- Can wet AMD patients benefit from this technology? Current trials focus on geographic atrophy (dry AMD), though research continues for exudative forms.
- What maintenance does the system require? Periodic optometric calibration and eyewear battery changes (8-12 hour lifespan).
- Does insurance cover retinal implants? Currently considered experimental – coverage depends on regulatory approval status.
Expert Opinion:
“This marks a paradigm shift from managing degenerative disease to functional restoration,” observes Dr. Karl Csaky, retinal specialist at Retina Foundation of the Southwest. “While current results provide basic object detection, the neural interface architecture allows for exponential improvements – we’re looking at potential 20/200 vision in next-generation devices through pixel density doubling and advanced signal processing.”
Key Terms:
- Photovoltaic retinal prosthesis AMD treatment
- Subretinal implant for geographic atrophy
- PRIMA BCI vision restoration clinical trial
- Neuroprosthetic central vision rehabilitation
- Smart glasses-integrated retinal implant
- Science Corporation ophthalmic implants
- Near-infrared light stimulation optic nerve
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