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Chew LA, Iannaccone A. Gene-agnostic approaches to treating inherited retinal degenerations. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1177838. [PMID: 37123404 PMCID: PMC10133473 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1177838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Most patients with inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) have been waiting for treatments that are "just around the corner" for decades, with only a handful of seminal breakthroughs happening in recent years. Highlighting the difficulties in the quest for curative therapeutics, Luxturna required 16 years of development before finally obtaining United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and its international equivalents. IRDs are both genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous. While this diversity offers many opportunities for gene-by-gene precision medicine-based approaches, it also poses a significant challenge. For this reason, alternative (or parallel) strategies to identify more comprehensive, across-the-board therapeutics for the genetically and phenotypically diverse IRD patient population are very appealing. Even when gene-specific approaches may be available and become approved for use, many patients may have reached a disease stage whereby these approaches may no longer be viable. Thus, alternate visual preservation or restoration therapeutic approaches are needed at these stages. In this review, we underscore several gene-agnostic approaches that are being developed as therapeutics for IRDs. From retinal supplementation to stem cell transplantation, optogenetic therapy and retinal prosthetics, these strategies would bypass at least in part the need for treating every individual gene or mutation or provide an invaluable complement to them. By considering the diverse patient population and treatment strategies suited for different stages and patterns of retinal degeneration, gene agnostic approaches are very well poised to impact favorably outcomes and prognosis for IRD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A. Chew
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Alessandro Iannaccone
- Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations and Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases, Department of Ophthalmology, Duke Eye Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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2
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Paré S, Bleau M, Dricot L, Ptito M, Kupers R. Brain structural changes in blindness: a systematic review and an anatomical likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 150:105165. [PMID: 37054803 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, numerous structural brain imaging studies investigated purported morphometric changes in early (EB) and late onset blindness (LB). The results of these studies have not yielded very consistent results, neither with respect to the type, nor to the anatomical locations of the brain morphometric alterations. To better characterize the effects of blindness on brain morphometry, we performed a systematic review and an Anatomical-Likelihood-Estimation (ALE) coordinate-based-meta-analysis of 65 eligible studies on brain structural changes in EB and LB, including 890 EB, 466 LB and 1257 sighted controls. Results revealed atrophic changes throughout the whole extent of the retino-geniculo-striate system in both EB and LB, whereas changes in areas beyond the occipital lobe occurred in EB only. We discuss the nature of some of the contradictory findings with respect to the used brain imaging methodologies and characteristics of the blind populations such as the onset, duration and cause of blindness. Future studies should aim for much larger sample sizes, eventually by merging data from different brain imaging centers using the same imaging sequences, opt for multimodal structural brain imaging, and go beyond a purely structural approach by combining functional with structural connectivity network analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Paré
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Maxime Bleau
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Laurence Dricot
- Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Maurice Ptito
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ron Kupers
- School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Institute of NeuroScience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Bruxelles, Belgium; Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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3
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Pamir Z, Jung JH, Peli E. Preparing participants for the use of the tongue visual sensory substitution device. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2022; 17:888-896. [PMID: 32997554 PMCID: PMC8007668 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1821102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Visual sensory substitution devices (SSDs) convey visual information to a blind person through another sensory modality. Using a visual SSD in various daily activities requires training prior to use the device independently. Yet, there is limited literature about procedures and outcomes of the training conducted for preparing users for practical use of SSDs in daily activities. METHODS We trained 29 blind adults (9 with congenital and 20 with acquired blindness) in the use of a commercially available electro-tactile SSD, BrainPort. We describe a structured training protocol adapted from the previous studies, responses of participants, and we present retrospective qualitative data on the progress of participants during the training. RESULTS The length of the training was not a critical factor in reaching an advanced stage. Though performance in the first two sessions seems to be a good indicator of participants' ability to progress in the training protocol, there are large individual differences in how far and how fast each participant can progress in the training protocol. There are differences between congenital blind users and those blinded later in life. CONCLUSIONS The information on the training progression would be of interest to researchers preparing studies, and to eye care professionals, who may advise patients to use SSDs.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThere are large individual differences in how far and how fast each participant can learn to use a visual-to-tactile sensory substitution device for a variety of tasks.Recognition is mainly achieved through top-down processing with prior knowledge about the possible responses. Therefore, the generalizability is still questionable.Users develop different strategies in order to succeed in training tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahide Pamir
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jae-Hyun Jung
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Eli Peli
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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4
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Agarwal R, Tripathi A. Current Modalities for Low Vision Rehabilitation. Cureus 2021; 13:e16561. [PMID: 34466307 PMCID: PMC8396411 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual rehabilitation is an effective method for increasing the quality of life among individuals with low vision or blindness due to untreatable causes. Low vision rehabilitation aims for patients to use their residual vision effectively and efficiently to enable them to live independent and productive lives. Low vision rehabilitation includes assessment of residual visual functions, prescription of rehabilitation aids, and training in the use of devices. A multidisciplinary approach and coordinated effort are necessary to take advantage of new scientific advances and achieve optimal results for the patient. This article aims to review the various aids and methods available for low vision rehabilitation and also discusses technology advances that can enhance the visual functioning of individuals who are visually impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Agarwal
- Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Gorakhpur, IND
| | - Alka Tripathi
- Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Gorakhpur, IND
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Ptito M, Bleau M, Djerourou I, Paré S, Schneider FC, Chebat DR. Brain-Machine Interfaces to Assist the Blind. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:638887. [PMID: 33633557 PMCID: PMC7901898 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.638887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The loss or absence of vision is probably one of the most incapacitating events that can befall a human being. The importance of vision for humans is also reflected in brain anatomy as approximately one third of the human brain is devoted to vision. It is therefore unsurprising that throughout history many attempts have been undertaken to develop devices aiming at substituting for a missing visual capacity. In this review, we present two concepts that have been prevalent over the last two decades. The first concept is sensory substitution, which refers to the use of another sensory modality to perform a task that is normally primarily sub-served by the lost sense. The second concept is cross-modal plasticity, which occurs when loss of input in one sensory modality leads to reorganization in brain representation of other sensory modalities. Both phenomena are training-dependent. We also briefly describe the history of blindness from ancient times to modernity, and then proceed to address the means that have been used to help blind individuals, with an emphasis on modern technologies, invasive (various type of surgical implants) and non-invasive devices. With the advent of brain imaging, it has become possible to peer into the neural substrates of sensory substitution and highlight the magnitude of the plastic processes that lead to a rewired brain. Finally, we will address the important question of the value and practicality of the available technologies and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurice Ptito
- École d’Optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maxime Bleau
- École d’Optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ismaël Djerourou
- École d’Optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Samuel Paré
- École d’Optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Fabien C. Schneider
- TAPE EA7423 University of Lyon-Saint Etienne, Saint Etienne, France
- Neuroradiology Unit, University Hospital of Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Daniel-Robert Chebat
- Visual and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory (VCN Lab), Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ariel University, Ariel, Israël
- Navigation and Accessibility Research Center of Ariel University (NARCA), Ariel, Israël
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Anurova I, Carlson S, Rauschecker JP. Overlapping Anatomical Networks Convey Cross-Modal Suppression in the Sighted and Coactivation of "Visual" and Auditory Cortex in the Blind. Cereb Cortex 2020; 29:4863-4876. [PMID: 30843062 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhz021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present combined DTI/fMRI study we investigated adaptive plasticity of neural networks involved in controlling spatial and nonspatial auditory working memory in the early blind (EB). In both EB and sighted controls (SC), fractional anisotropy (FA) within the right inferior longitudinal fasciculus correlated positively with accuracy in a one-back sound localization but not sound identification task. The neural tracts passing through the cluster of significant correlation connected auditory and "visual" areas in the right hemisphere. Activity in these areas during both sound localization and identification correlated with FA within the anterior corpus callosum, anterior thalamic radiation, and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus. In EB, FA in these structures correlated positively with activity in both auditory and "visual" areas, whereas FA in SC correlated positively with activity in auditory and negatively with activity in visual areas. The results indicate that frontal white matter conveys cross-modal suppression of occipital areas in SC, while it mediates coactivation of auditory and reorganized "visual" cortex in EB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Anurova
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.,Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Synnöve Carlson
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, School of Science, Aalto University, Espoo 02150, Finland.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Josef P Rauschecker
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA.,Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Munich 85748, Germany
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Altınbay D, İdil ŞA. Current Approaches to Low Vision (Re)Habilitation. Turk J Ophthalmol 2019; 49:154-163. [PMID: 31245978 PMCID: PMC6624462 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2018.53325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
With increased life expectancy at birth and especially the rising incidence of age-related macular degeneration, low vision (re)habilitation is becoming more important today. Important factors to consider when presenting rehabilitation and treatment options to patients presenting to low vision centers include the diagnosis of the underlying disease, the patient’s age, their existing visual functions (especially distance and near visual acuity), whether visual loss is central or peripheral, whether their disease is progressive or not, the patient’s education level, and their expectations from us. Low vision patients must be guided to the right centers at the appropriate age, with appropriate indications, and with realistic expectations, and the rehabilitation process must be carried out as a multidisciplinary collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Altınbay
- Private Niv Eye Center, Ophthalmology Clinic, Adana, Turkey
- Ankara University, Artificial Vision and Low Vision Rehabilitation, Master Student with Thesis in Vision, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Şefay Aysun İdil
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey
- Center of Vision Research and Low Vision Rehabilitation, Ankara, Turkey
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8
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Boujraf S. Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging Strategies for Color Mapping of Human Brain Anatomy. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SIGNALS AND SENSORS 2018; 8:73-80. [PMID: 29928631 PMCID: PMC5992900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A color mapping of fiber tract orientation using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) can be prominent in clinical practice. The goal of this paper is to perform a comparative study of visualized diffusion anisotropy in the human brain anatomical entities using three different color-mapping techniques based on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and DTI. METHODS The first technique is based on calculating a color map from DWIs measured in three perpendicular directions. The second technique is based on eigenvalues derived from the diffusion tensor. The last technique is based on three eigenvectors corresponding to sorted eigenvalues derived from the diffusion tensor. All magnetic resonance imaging measurements were achieved using a 1.5 Tesla Siemens Vision whole body imaging system. A single-shot DW echoplanar imaging sequence used a Stejskal-Tanner approach. Trapezoidal diffusion gradients are used. The slice orientation was transverse. The basic measurement yielded a set of 13 images. Each series consists of a single image without diffusion weighting, besides two DWIs for each of the next six noncollinear magnetic field gradient directions. RESULTS The three types of color maps were calculated consequently using the DWI obtained and the DTI. Indeed, we established an excellent similarity between the image data in the color maps and the fiber directions of known anatomical structures (e.g., corpus callosum and gray matter). CONCLUSIONS In the meantime, rotationally invariant quantities such as the eigenvectors of the diffusion tensor reflected better, the real orientation found in the studied tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saïd Boujraf
- Department of Biophysics and Clinical MRI Methods, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Fez, Morocco,The Clinical Neuroscience Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Fez, Morocco,Department Radiology and Clinical Imaging, University Hospital of Fez, Fez, Morocco,Address for correspondence: Dr. Saϊd Boujraf, Department of Biophysics and Clinical MRI Methods, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Fez, BP. 1893; Km 2.200, Sidi Hrazem Road, Fez 30000, Morocco. E-mail:
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9
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Cheng DL, Greenberg PB, Borton DA. Advances in Retinal Prosthetic Research: A Systematic Review of Engineering and Clinical Characteristics of Current Prosthetic Initiatives. Curr Eye Res 2017; 42:334-347. [PMID: 28362177 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2016.1270326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To date, reviews of retinal prostheses have focused primarily on devices undergoing human trials in the Western Hemisphere and fail to capture significant advances in materials and engineering research in countries such as Japan and Korea, as well as projects in early stages of development. To address these gaps, this systematic review examines worldwide advances in retinal prosthetic research, evaluates engineering characteristics and clinical progress of contemporary device initiatives, and identifies potential directions for future research in the field of retinal prosthetics. METHODS A literature search using PubMed, Google Scholar, and IEEExplore was conducted following the PRISMA Guidelines for Systematic Review. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed papers demonstrating progress in human or animal trials and papers discussing the prosthetic engineering design. For each initiative, a description of the device, its engineering considerations, and recent clinical results were provided. RESULTS Ten prosthetic initiatives met our inclusion criteria and were organized by stimulation location. Of these initiatives, four have recently completed human trials, three are undergoing multi- or single-center human trials, and three are undergoing preclinical animal testing. Only the Argus II (FDA 2013, CE 2011) has obtained FDA approval for use in the United States; the Alpha-IMS (CE 2013) has achieved the highest visual acuity using a Landolt-C test to date and is the only device presently undergoing a multicenter clinical trial. CONCLUSION Several distinct approaches to retinal stimulation have been successful in eliciting visual precepts in animals and/or humans. However, many clinical needs are still not met and engineering challenges must be addressed before a retinal prosthesis with the capability to fully and safely restore functional vision can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick L Cheng
- a Alpert Medical School , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Paul B Greenberg
- b Section of Ophthalmology , Providence VA Medical Center , Providence , RI , USA.,c Division of Ophthalmology, Alpert Medical School , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
| | - David A Borton
- d School of Engineering , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA.,e Brown Institute for Brain Science , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
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10
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Abstract
Sensory neuroprostheses for restoration of vision are a technical approach for treatment of previously untreatable blindness. These systems consist of a technical sensor such as a camera and an implanted multi-electrode array within the visual system. The image information from the sensor is processed with specially designed integrated circuits in such a way that the stimulation pulses can be determined and presented to the implanted multi-electrode matrix. Energy supply and the transfer of the stimulus pulse information is realized either via direct cable connections within the site of the implant or by telemetric inductive links. Currently, two retinal implant systems are approved in the European Union (EU) to be used in blind patients with retinitis pigmentosa. With both systems basic visual functions can be restored. The complication rate is relatively low given the complexity of the surgical procedure. Other systems are still under development but approval studies by several manufacturers and consortia are already in preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Walter
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland.
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11
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Ferreira S, Pereira AC, Quendera B, Reis A, Silva ED, Castelo-Branco M. Primary visual cortical remapping in patients with inherited peripheral retinal degeneration. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2016; 13:428-438. [PMID: 28116235 PMCID: PMC5233796 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2016.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Human studies addressing the long-term effects of peripheral retinal degeneration on visual cortical function and structure are scarce. Here we investigated this question in patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a genetic condition leading to peripheral visual degeneration. We acquired functional and anatomical magnetic resonance data from thirteen patients with different levels of visual loss and twenty-two healthy participants to study primary (V1) visual cortical retinotopic remapping and cortical thickness. We identified systematic visual field remapping in the absence of structural changes in the primary visual cortex of RP patients. Remapping consisted in a retinotopic eccentricity shift of central retinal inputs to more peripheral locations in V1. Importantly, this was associated with changes in visual experience, as assessed by the extent of the visual loss, with more constricted visual fields resulting in larger remapping. This pattern of remapping is consistent with expansion or shifting of neuronal receptive fields into the cortical regions with reduced retinal input. These data provide evidence for functional changes in V1 that are dependent on the magnitude of peripheral visual loss in RP, which may be explained by rapid cortical adaptation mechanisms or long-term cortical reorganization. This study highlights the importance of analyzing the retinal determinants of brain functional and structural alterations for future visual restoration approaches.
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Key Words
- FPZ, Function Projection Zone
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
- Human
- LE, Left Eye
- LH, Left Hemisphere
- LPZ, Lesion Projection Zone
- MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Plasticity
- Primary visual cortex
- RE, Right Eye
- RH, Right Hemisphere
- RNFL, Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer
- RP, Retinitis Pigmentosa
- Reorganization
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Retinotopy
- fMRI, functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Ferreira
- Visual Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (CNC.IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andreia Carvalho Pereira
- Visual Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (CNC.IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Quendera
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Brain Imaging Network of Portugal, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Aldina Reis
- Visual Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (CNC.IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Ophthalmology Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Eduardo Duarte Silva
- Visual Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (CNC.IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- Visual Neuroscience Laboratory, Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Life Sciences (CNC.IBILI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Brain Imaging Network of Portugal, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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Devices for visually impaired people: High technological devices with low user acceptance and no adaptability for children. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 69:79-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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13
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Improving training for sensory augmentation using the science of expertise. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:234-244. [PMID: 27264831 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sensory substitution and augmentation devices (SSADs) allow users to perceive information about their environment that is usually beyond their sensory capabilities. Despite an extensive history, SSADs are arguably not used to their fullest, both as assistive technology for people with sensory impairment or as research tools in the psychology and neuroscience of sensory perception. Studies of the non-use of other assistive technologies suggest one factor is the balance of benefits gained against the costs incurred. We argue that improving the learning experience would improve this balance, suggest three ways in which it can be improved by leveraging existing cognitive science findings on expertise and skill development, and acknowledge limitations and relevant concerns. We encourage the systematic evaluation of learning programs, and suggest that a more effective learning process for SSADs could reduce the barrier to uptake and allow users to reach higher levels of overall capacity.
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Grant P, Spencer L, Arnoldussen A, Hogle R, Nau A, Szlyk J, Nussdorf J, Fletcher DC, Gordon K, Seiple W. The Functional Performance of the BrainPort V100 Device in Persons who Are Profoundly Blind. JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT & BLINDNESS 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0145482x1611000202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This study was conducted to evaluate the functional performance of the BrainPort V100 device, an FDA-cleared sensory-substitution system, in persons who are profoundly blind (that is, have some or no light perception). Methods This was a prospective, single-arm, multicenter clinical investigation. Participants received 10 hours of device training and were required to use the device in their everyday environments for 1 year. Functional performance measures of object identification, orientation and mobility (O&M), and word identification were assessed at baseline, in post-device training, and at the 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month time points. Results Fifty-seven participants completed the study and used the device for 1 year. No device-related serious adverse events were reported, demonstrating that the risks associated with the BrainPort are minimal. Participants performed object recognition (91.2% success rate) and O&M (57.9% success rate) tasks beyond chance level. Discussion This study demonstrates that the BrainPort can be used safely and independently by persons who are blind. Participants with profound blindness can accomplish a set of tasks more successfully by using the BrainPort than without the device. Following initial training, performance on these tasks was maintained or improved over the course of 1 year. Implications for practitioners The BrainPort is a noninvasive and nonsurgical device that heightens functional independence for persons who are blind. The device presents users with more information about their environment than conventional assistive devices, and can enhance independence in performing activities of daily living.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Grant
- Director of clinical research, Wicab, Inc., 8313 Greenway Boulevard, Suite 100, Middleton, WI 53562
| | - Lindsey Spencer
- Program manager, McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705
| | - Aimee Arnoldussen
- Technology assessment program manager, UW Health, McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53792; and scientific consultant, Wicab, Inc., Middleton, WI
| | - Rich Hogle
- Vice president and director of product development, Wicab, Inc., Middleton, WI
| | - Amy Nau
- Optometrist, Korb & Associates, 400 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 2, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Janet Szlyk
- President and CEO, Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired; professor, University of Illinois at Chicago; research health scientist, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Jonathan Nussdorf
- Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, Ochsner Health System, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, LA 70121; associate professor, University of Queensland School of Medicine, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald C. Fletcher
- Medical director, Envision Low Vision Rehabilitation Center, 610 North Main Street, 2nd Floor, Wichita, KS 67203
| | - Keith Gordon
- Vice president, research, Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 1929 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 3E8
| | - William Seiple
- Vice president of research, Lighthouse Guild International, 111 East 59th Street, New York, NY 10023; professor, Department of Ophthalmology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY; research biologist, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL; invited professor, University Pierre & Marie Curie, Paris, France
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Vincent M, Tang H, Khoo W, Zhu Z, Ro T. Shape Discrimination Using the Tongue: Implications for a Visual-to-Tactile Sensory Substitution Device. Multisens Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1163/22134808-00002542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Sensory substitution devices have the potential to provide individuals with visual impairments with more information about their environments, which may help them recognize objects and achieve more independence in their daily lives. However, many of these devices may require extensive training and might be limited in the amount of information that they can convey. We tested the effectiveness and assessed some of the limitations of the BrainPort device, which provides stimulation through a 20 × 20 electrode grid array on the tongue. Across five experiments, including one with blind individuals, we found that subjects were unable to accurately discriminate between simple shapes as well as different line orientations that were briefly presented on the tongue, even after 300 trials of practice with the device. These experiments indicate that such a minimal training regimen with the BrainPort is not sufficient for object recognition, raising serious concerns about the usability of this device without extensive training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Vincent
- The City College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Hao Tang
- The City College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Wai Khoo
- The City College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Zhigang Zhu
- The City College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Tony Ro
- The City College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10016, USA
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Murphy MC, Nau AC, Fisher C, Kim SG, Schuman JS, Chan KC. Top-down influence on the visual cortex of the blind during sensory substitution. Neuroimage 2015; 125:932-940. [PMID: 26584776 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2015.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Revised: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual sensory substitution devices provide a non-surgical and flexible approach to vision rehabilitation in the blind. These devices convert images taken by a camera into cross-modal sensory signals that are presented as a surrogate for direct visual input. While previous work has demonstrated that the visual cortex of blind subjects is recruited during sensory substitution, the cognitive basis of this activation remains incompletely understood. To test the hypothesis that top-down input provides a significant contribution to this activation, we performed functional MRI scanning in 11 blind (7 acquired and 4 congenital) and 11 sighted subjects under two conditions: passive listening of image-encoded soundscapes before sensory substitution training and active interpretation of the same auditory sensory substitution signals after a 10-minute training session. We found that the modulation of visual cortex activity due to active interpretation was significantly stronger in the blind over sighted subjects. In addition, congenitally blind subjects showed stronger task-induced modulation in the visual cortex than acquired blind subjects. In a parallel experiment, we scanned 18 blind (11 acquired and 7 congenital) and 18 sighted subjects at rest to investigate alterations in functional connectivity due to visual deprivation. The results demonstrated that visual cortex connectivity of the blind shifted away from sensory networks and toward known areas of top-down input. Taken together, our data support the model of the brain, including the visual system, as a highly flexible task-based and not sensory-based machine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Murphy
- NeuroImaging Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Sensory Substitution Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amy C Nau
- Sensory Substitution Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher Fisher
- Sensory Substitution Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Seong-Gi Kim
- NeuroImaging Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Neuroscience Imaging Research, Institute for Basic Science, Suwon, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea; Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joel S Schuman
- Sensory Substitution Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin C Chan
- NeuroImaging Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Reading in the dark: neural correlates and cross-modal plasticity for learning to read entire words without visual experience. Neuropsychologia 2015; 83:149-160. [PMID: 26577136 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2015.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive neuroscience has long attempted to determine the ways in which cortical selectivity develops, and the impact of nature vs. nurture on it. Congenital blindness (CB) offers a unique opportunity to test this question as the brains of blind individuals develop without visual experience. Here we approach this question through the reading network. Several areas in the visual cortex have been implicated as part of the reading network, and one of the main ones among them is the VWFA, which is selective to the form of letters and words. But what happens in the CB brain? On the one hand, it has been shown that cross-modal plasticity leads to the recruitment of occipital areas, including the VWFA, for linguistic tasks. On the other hand, we have recently demonstrated VWFA activity for letters in contrast to other visual categories when the information is provided via other senses such as touch or audition. Which of these tasks is more dominant? By which mechanism does the CB brain process reading? Using fMRI and visual-to-auditory sensory substitution which transfers the topographical features of the letters we compare reading with semantic and scrambled conditions in a group of CB. We found activation in early auditory and visual cortices during the early processing phase (letter), while the later phase (word) showed VWFA and bilateral dorsal-intraparietal activations for words. This further supports the notion that many visual regions in general, even early visual areas, also maintain a predilection for task processing even when the modality is variable and in spite of putative lifelong linguistic cross-modal plasticity. Furthermore, we find that the VWFA is recruited preferentially for letter and word form, while it was not recruited, and even exhibited deactivation, for an immediately subsequent semantic task suggesting that despite only short sensory substitution experience orthographic task processing can dominate semantic processing in the VWFA. On a wider scope, this implies that at least in some cases cross-modal plasticity which enables the recruitment of areas for new tasks may be dominated by sensory independent task specific activation.
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18
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Nau AC, Murphy MC, Chan KC. Use of sensory substitution devices as a model system for investigating cross-modal neuroplasticity in humans. Neural Regen Res 2015; 10:1717-9. [PMID: 26807088 PMCID: PMC4705765 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.169612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amy C. Nau
- UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Matthew C. Murphy
- UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kevin C. Chan
- UPMC Eye Center, Ophthalmology and Visual Science Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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19
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Li Q, Zhai L, Jiang Q, Qin W, Li Q, Yin X, Guo M. Tract-based spatial statistics analysis of white matter changes in children with anisometropic amblyopia. Neurosci Lett 2015; 597:7-12. [PMID: 25899779 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2015.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Amblyopia is a neurological disorder of vision that follows abnormal binocular interaction or visual deprivation during early life. Previous studies have reported multiple functional or structural cortical alterations. Although white matter was also studied, it still cannot be clarified clearly which fasciculus was affected by amblyopia. In the present study, tract-based spatial statistics analysis was applied to diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to investigate potential diffusion changes of neural tracts in anisometropic amblyopia. Fractional anisotropy (FA) value was calculated and compared between 20 amblyopic children and 18 healthy age-matched controls. In contrast to the controls, significant decreases in FA values were found in right optic radiation (OR), left inferior longitudinal fasciculus/inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (ILF/IFO) and right superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) in the amblyopia. Furthermore, FA values of these identified tracts showed positive correlation with visual acuity. It can be inferred that abnormal visual input not only hinders OR from well developed, but also impairs fasciculi associated with dorsal and ventral visual pathways, which may be responsible for the amblyopic deficiency in object discrimination and stereopsis. Increased FA was detected in right posterior part of corpus callosum (CC) with a medium effect size, which may be due to compensation effect. DTI with subsequent measurement of FA is a useful tool for investigating neuronal tract involvement in amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center of Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Liying Zhai
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qinying Jiang
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China; Institute of Neuroscience, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Qin
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingji Li
- Department of Pediatric Strabismus and Amblyopia, Tianjin Aier Ophthalmology Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohui Yin
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Mingxia Guo
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
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