Abstract
Photoelectric dyes that absorb light and convert photon energy to electric potential have previously been shown to stimulate retinal neurons in cultures. As such, we have designed a new type of retinal prosthesis using polyethylene films coupled with photoelectric dye molecules. In this study, the electric potentials on the film were observed using a scanning Kelvin probe microscope under light and dark conditions. As a result, electric potentials were observed on the film, which were dependent on light intensity and wavelength. Furthermore, the electric potentials showed a rapid on-off response to light.
