Biohybrid image sensor uses water-based electrolyte to mimic retina's rods and cones

Both image photodetector arrays and retinas are pixelated sensors that dynamically extract various features from the visual scene—e.g., color, brightness, and contrast—before transmitting electrical signals to either a graphical interface of a display or the brain. Image sensors rely on solid state semiconductor technology, whereas retinas rely on photoreceptor cells in water-based ionic environments. A multidisciplinary team of researchers has now developed an innovative image sensor that integrates liquid biological environments with organic electronics, mimicking core functions of the animal retina.