LAUSR

High-optical-resolution artificial retina system that accurately communicates with the optic nerve is a main challenge in the ground of modern biological science and bionic field. Here, we developed a bionic artificial retina possessing photo-transduction "cells" with measurement even smaller than that of the neural cells. Using the technique of micrometer processing, we constructed a pyramid-shape periodic microarray of photoreceptor. Each "sensing cell" took advantage of polythiophene derivative/ fullerene derivative (PCBM) as photoelectric converter. By reason of folic acid plays an essential role in eye growth, we particularly modified the polythiophene derivatives with folic acid tags. Therefore, the artificial retina could enlarge the contact area and even recognize the nerve cells in order to improve the consequent of nerve stimulation. We implanted the artificial retina into blinded rats' eyes. Electrophysiological analysis revealed its recovery of photosensitive function after 3-months surgery. Our work provides an innovative idea for fabricating a high-resolution bionic artificial retina system. It shows a great potential in artificial intelligence and biomedicine.