Alameda, California-based Science Corp is launching its innovative Prima implant in Europe, a significant step towards restoring partial vision for individuals suffering from an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration. This neurotechnology breakthrough marks the first time a US brain implant company's device will be widely available to patients.
The Prima implant, designed for those with geographic atrophy caused by age-related macular degeneration, is surgically placed at the back of the eye. It works in conjunction with specially designed glasses, allowing users to regain limited central vision. While current treatments primarily aim to slow disease progression, the Prima offers a novel approach to actively improve sight.
European Rollout and Future Plans
Having received the CE mark, the Prima implant can now be sold across Europe without additional country-specific approvals. Science Corp anticipates its first commercial patient implantation in August, likely in Germany. The company plans to treat dozens of patients this year and aims for approximately 200 next year, offering hope to hundreds of thousands of potential candidates in Europe.
CEO Max Hodak emphasizes the significance of this milestone, stating it's the first in a series of products aimed at relentlessly advancing neurotechnology. The company, valued at $1.5 billion and having raised $489 million, is also exploring broader neurotechnology applications, including devices that connect with brain tissue using engineered neurons.
Path to US Market Approval
In parallel with its European expansion, Science Corp is actively seeking approval in the United States. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted the company a humanitarian device exemption pathway, a streamlined route for products addressing rare conditions. Science Corp hopes to bring the Prima device to the American market by next year, extending its reach to more patients globally.
This retina implant represents an early commercial achievement for Science Corp in its larger mission to develop advanced technologies that bridge human and machine interfaces, positioning it as a key player in the growing neurotechnology sector alongside other prominent startups.