LambdaVision is a biopharma company developing the first protein-based artificial retina to restore meaningful vision for patients who are blind or have lost significant sight due to advanced retinal degenerative diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa (RP). By using proteins similar to the visual pigment rhodopsin that is naturally found in our eyes, LambdaVision’s protein-based artificial retina mimics the light-absorbing properties of human photoreceptors by replacing the function of these damaged cells in the retinas of blind patients. Researchers at LambdaVision are currently working with the International Space Station (ISS) to improve their manufacturing process of the artificial retinas. Developing these implants in space with microgravity increases the purity of each artificial retina by decreasing the amount of sedimentation caused by gravity. They spent time optimizing the manufacturing process and now aim to scale up the process.
What this means for Usher syndrome: One day, who knows, maybe you’ll be able to say you have an artificial retina transplant that was made in space!
