Multichannel cortical stimulation for restoration of vision

Development of an intracortical visual prosthesis for restoration of vision, has been, and continues to be an elusive goal of neural prosthesis researchers. Our multi-institutional team has tested the feasibility of implanting and evaluating large numbers of stimulation/recording electrodes in an animal model. Using a combination of 8-electrode arrays and individual electrodes, 152 activated iridium microelectrodes were implanted in area V1 of a macaque. Visual stimuli were used to define a retinotopic map. Spatial coordinates for each electrode were used to train the animal to use electrical stimulation in performing a visual psychophysical task.