Developing biocompatible gold nanoparticles for non-invasive retinal stimulation

Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide. Current retinal prostheses are predominantly solid-state implanted devices designed to evoke visual sensations in affected individuals. However, the resolution of existing systems remains severely limited. In addition, solid-state implants are constrained in size by the need for invasive surgical incisions, making implantation procedures risky, costly, and less accessible to patients. Consequently, there is a critical need for non-invasive retinal prosthesis technologies achieving precise, high-resolution stimulation. In this summer project, students will work on developing biocompatible gold nanoparticles for non-invasive photoacoustic retina stimulation. Students will perform nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization and test delivery of nanoparticle to retina through eye drop. Success of the project will enable a non-invasive retina stimulation approach through delivered gold nanoparticles as highly efficient photoacoustic agents.