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<DIV>From <A href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/3287639.stm">BBC
News</A>: Scientists have described their first complete design of an implant
that will take the place of light-sensitive cells in the retina of a damaged
eye. Current implants use chips that convert light into electrical impulses that
are fed to the brain via the optic nerve. The new device will work differently.
It will be placed on a damaged retina and convert light into chemicals that will
stimulate nerve cells. The prototype is being constructed at Stanford University
in California. Dr Stacey Bent of Stanford University calls the device "the holy
grail of prostheses". It takes a new approach to replacing a damaged retina, the
layer of cells at the back of the eye that detect light and send signals to the
brain. Instead of using electrical stimulation from a chip that converts light
into electric impulses, we are using an implant that releases neurotransmitters
just as the retina does naturally.</DIV></BODY></HTML>