VIEW POINT

Retinal prosthetics—often referred to as “bionic eyes”—are an exciting area of research aiming to restore vision for people affected by severe retinal diseases. In this patient-focused webinar, we’ll explore what these devices are, how they work, and the potential they hold for people living with conditions like retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

Our expert speaker will provide an overview of current technologies, the latest research and clinical trials, and the real-world challenges of developing and using retinal implants. Whether you’re curious about the future of vision restoration or want to better understand emerging treatment options, this session offers an engaging and hopeful look into a rapidly evolving field.

Includes time for live Q&A.

Featured Speaker:

Dr. Daniel Palanker is a Professor of Ophthalmology and Electrical Engineering at Stanford. His research focuses on the development of optical and electronic technologies for diagnostics, surgery, and prosthetics in ophthalmology. His work includes the photovoltaic retinal prosthesis (PRIMA), currently in clinical trials, and several technologies now in global clinical use.

If you have questions in advance or need assistance with registration, please email education@fightingblindness.ca.

Meet Our Speaker:

Dr. Nirojini Sivachandran is a retina specialist at the Toronto Retina Institute. She holds a PhD and MD from the University of Toronto, completed her residency at McMaster University, and a vitreoretinal fellowship at the University of Ottawa. She manages a full range of retinal conditions, including complex cataracts.

Meet the Speakers

Dr. David M. Gamm is Director of the McPherson Eye Research Institute and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He founded Opsis Therapeutics, where he serves as Chief Scientific Officer. His research uses stem cell technology to model retinal diseases and develop cell replacement therapies.

Dr. Shaheer Aboobaker is a fellowship-trained retina specialist and Managing Partner at the Toronto Retina Institute. He is actively involved in clinical research, serving as an investigator in over 20 trials focused on innovative treatments. He also co-founded the Young Professionals Bursary to support disadvantaged students in South Africa.

Dr. Zuhal Butuner is the Chief Medical Officer at Sepul Bio, a division of Laboratories Thea focused on RNA therapies for inherited eye diseases. She holds an OD and MSc from the University of Waterloo and an MBA from the University of Toronto. With over 25 years of experience, she has led clinical development and medical affairs efforts across biotech and pharmaceutical sectors.

Are you or a loved one navigating life with a Usher Syndrome or Bardet-Biedel Syndrome (BBS)? Join us for an informative webinar offering the latest insights into research, treatments, and lived experiences related to these conditions.

A lived experience panel featuring individuals affected by syndromic conditions, who will share their personal stories, insights, and advice on navigating life with these multifaceted diagnoses.

This is a unique opportunity to connect with experts, gain essential information, and find support within a community that truly understands. An optional social session will follow the webinar from 7:45 pm – 8:15 pm ET, offering a chance to connect informally with others. Details on how to join will be shared during the event.

Register today to be part of this impactful discussion. For questions or assistance with registration, please get in touch with education@fightingblindness.ca.