Abstract
Purpose :
The upper limit of our mammalian visual spectrum is dictated by the physical thermodynamic property of opsin, the photon detecting protein. The so-called visible light is light of wavelength from 400-700 nm. The ability to detect light beyound this spetral limit is of great interests in both visual science research and practical applications.
Methods :
In order to extend the visible light spectrum, we developed the ocular injectable and photoreceptor-binding upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) that can be intimately integrated with the mammalian retinal photoreceptors as miniature self-powered near-infrared (NIR) light transducers to generate mammalian near-infrared (NIR) imaging vision.
Results :
We demonstrated mice recieved UCNPs injection obtained NIR light image vision. The UCNPs in the retina did not create inflammation, retinal degeneration and further toxic side effects. Furthermore, we examined the photoresponses, light adaptation and noise characteristics of photoreceptors bearing UCNPs. Our results demonstrated the biocompatibility of the ocular injectable photoreceptor-binding UCNPs.
Conclusions :
This new method will provide opportunities for emerging bio-integrated nanodevice designs and applications, as well as for visual science research.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.