Light-activated eye drops restore vision in blind mice without surgery
Researchers demonstrated that light-responsive eye-drop compounds can revive light perception and normal visual behavior in blind mice without gene therapy or implants.
Scientists from the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia and partner institutions have created a new class of photoswitchable small-molecule drugs, named prosthe6, that can replace the function of lost photoreceptors. In mouse models of age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, the compounds restored light-driven behaviors such as the optokinetic reflex and innate light-avoidance, even when delivered as simple eye drops.
The molecules target the mGlu6 receptor on ON-bipolar cells and change shape under ordinary visible light, triggering retinal signaling that mimics normal vision. Published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, the study reports favorable safety data and highlights the ability to work under typical indoor or overcast daylight levels. The team is now refining formulation and duration of effect, while the emerging spin-off Eyelumina seeks investment for translational work and future clinical trials. If successful, this approach could provide a non-invasive, mutation-independent treatment for millions affected by degenerative blindness.
Why it matters
It offers a potentially simple, non-invasive therapy for millions suffering from vision loss due to retinal degeneration.
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