Science Corp Secures $230 Million in Series C to Advance Vision-Restoring Implants

Science Corp Secures $230 Million in Series C to Advance Vision-Restoring Implants

Science Corp, a clinical-stage medical technology company based in Alameda, California, has announced a successful Series C funding round, securing $230 million. This round did not have a lead investor but saw participation from Lightspeed Venture Partners, Khosla Ventures, Y Combinator, Quiet Capital, and IQT.

Vision-Restoring Technology

Science Corp is developing groundbreaking brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies, with a focus on their PRIMA retinal implant. This device aims to restore vision for patients suffering from severe retinal diseases, such as advanced macular degeneration. The PRIMA system consists of a tiny retinal implant and specialized glasses that work together to transmit visual information to the brain.

The implant itself is a 2-millimeter device with 378 pixels, each equipped with electrodes that simulate damaged retinal cells. These electrodes are activated by infrared signals generated by a camera-equipped pair of glasses worn by the patient. The glasses filter out interference, allowing the implant to function effectively even in challenging lighting conditions.

Clinical Trials and Regulatory Progress

Science Corp has conducted clinical trials involving 47 patients across Europe and the U.S., reporting that 80% of participants experienced meaningful improvements in visual acuity. These trials demonstrated the device's potential to help patients read letters, numbers, and words despite their visual impairments.

The company has submitted an application for CE mark approval in the European Union and is also pursuing regulatory clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. If approved, PRIMA could become the first BCI product to restore vision to market, with a commercial launch in Europe anticipated later this year.

Use of Funds

The newly acquired funds will be allocated to several key areas:

• Commercialization of the PRIMA retinal implant.
• Expansion of research and manufacturing infrastructure.
• Development of additional neural interface technologies, including the Biohybrid platform and Vessel perfusion technology.

Future Developments

In addition to PRIMA, Science Corp is working on other cutting-edge technologies, such as the Biohybrid BCI, which promises higher data transmission bandwidth and a broader feature set. The company also offers Axon Probes for neuroscientific research, compatible with their SciFi miniature computer.

Cofounder Emma Zhou and the team at Science Corp are optimistic about the impact their innovations can have on patients' lives. Zhou stated, "Our goal is to bring transformative solutions to those affected by severe retinal diseases, and this funding is a significant step toward achieving that."

Science Corp continues to push the boundaries of medical technology, aiming to provide life-changing solutions for those affected by vision loss and other neural conditions.