2023: OptogenEYEsis
Imagine a world without sight - a harsh reality for many. The retina, a specialized tissue at the back of the eye, houses photoreceptor cells, each containing opsin molecules that respond to light, a crucial element in vision. The loss of these cells leads to the depletion of opsins, resulting in blindness. OptoGenEYEsis is a pioneering tool that leverages light-sensitive microbial opsins for genetic therapy. Our aim is to rejuvenate the retina's light-sensing abilities and restore vision. Unlike other microbial opsin-based treatments which suffer from narrow absorption spectra, suboptimal sensitivity, and limited efficiency in converting light into nervous electrical signals, our approach uses synthetic biology and microfluidics-based directed evolution for enhanced opsins. This innovative approach promises improved light absorption, heightened sensitivity, and efficient conversion of light into electrical signals for visual processing. It's more than just a solution; it's a game-changer in the fight against blindness.
For more infos, visit our WIKI and/or watch our presentation VIDEO.
Rewards
Gold Medal
Best Hardware Award, Overgrad
Best Software Award Nomination, Overgrad & Undergrad
The 2023 iGEM competition
In 2023, 402 team from 44 countries participated at the competition and more than 4000 people attended the Grand Jamboree that was held in Paris, at the Porte de Versailles Convention Center from 2nd to 6th of November 2023. Full infos and results are available on the iGEM 2023 website.
After iGEM
After the Jamboree, the "Hardware" part of the project is continued by the startup Blossom Life Sciences co-founded by one of the team leaders.
