Ultrasound Retinal Stimulation: A Mini-Review of Recent Developments

IEEE Trans Ultrason Ferroelectr Freq Control. 2022 Dec;69(12):3224-3231. doi: 10.1109/TUFFC.2022.3220568. Epub 2022 Nov 24.

Abstract

Ultrasound neuromodulation is an emerging technology. A significant amount of effort has been devoted to investigating the feasibility of noninvasive ultrasound retinal stimulation. Recent studies have shown that ultrasound can activate neurons in healthy and degenerated retinas. Specifically, high-frequency ultrasound can evoke localized neuron responses and generate patterns in visual circuits. In this review, we recapitulate pilot studies on ultrasound retinal stimulation, compare it with other neuromodulation technologies, and discuss its advantages and limitations. An overview of the opportunities and challenges to develop a noninvasive retinal prosthesis using high-frequency ultrasound is also provided.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Retina* / diagnostic imaging
  • Retina* / physiology
  • Ultrasonography
  • Visual Prosthesis*