The eye has been at the forefront of studies for centuries. While neuroscientists understand the function of the eye and how it is controlled, it's not easy to record the signals, while in awake states. This was identified in rodent studies, where rigid electrodes were not compatibles with the small, rounded shape of a rodent's eyes, which is constantly moving.

To record the retinal cell activity, researchers remove the eye from the animal and dissect the retina. The retina is laid flat on microelectrodes. With these preparations, the retina continues to respond to light for a few hours. New mesh electrodes, which were developed by a nanotechnologist, can be placed within the animal's eye, while the animal continues to live as normal. This can record the calls for several weeks.

The polymer with metal meshes, which measure 1.5mm by 0.8mm and with sixteen individual electrodes is carefully injected into each eye of the mouse, close to the vitreous gel. The electrodes then uncurl, coating the retina. The meshes have tiny wires which extend out the corner of the rodent's eye, which enables the researchers to attach external recording devices.

During sessions these rodents are restrained with their heads immobilised, for light stimulation and recording, moving freely with normal behaviour between the sessions. The meshes have very little effect on their sight and after a few weeks, they detach themselves. This in vivo recording has opened up new research opportunities, with researchers already having used the meshes to measure the change in retinal ganglion cell activity, which was measured over several days and night cycles.

Ray Man, the PA for Mahi Muqit, a leading retina eye specialist in London, said “This is a very exciting innovation, offering the ability to record the retina over several days. This innovation could be used to measure retinal maturation in individual cells, helping to examine why some cells die and others survive in certain eye diseases, such as glaucoma.”

Mahi Muqit is a leading retinal specialist working from a top retina eye clinic in the heart of London, offering retinal treatments, including treatment for patients with diabetic retinopathy.

About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract, and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eyesight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina, and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons, and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com.