Electronic Surrogate for Testing Electroretinogram (ERG) Measurement Devices

Replicates a Human Eye's Response to Light to Ensure ERG Measurements are Reliable and Accurate

This electronic surrogate replicates a mammalian, including the human, eye’s response to ensure accuracy of electroretinogram measurements. The electroretinogram (ERG) is an important diagnostic test for clinicians, veterinarians and researchers to measure the function of the retina. The electroretinogram test uses a retina-simulating device to identify a variety of inherited and acquired retinal diseases. While periodic calibrations help mitigate device degradation, it does not prevent a degraded device from being used until the next calibration operation, making the testing of devices important.

Current testing of electroretinogram test is a challenge. It relies on wild-type mammalian subjects, expensive light meters, or frequent and expensive on- and off-site calibrations to increase confidence in measurements. Additionally, calibration is a time-consuming process, requiring a trained technician.

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed an electronic surrogate that acts like a mammalian, including human, eye to test the electroretinogram (ERG) measurement device. It is housed in a model with a special sensor that reacts to light, as a real eye would. This makes it reliable and allows clinicians to test the ERG device often, easily, and accurately. The device also includes a user-friendly interface that provides immediate feedback on the performance of the ERG, helping to spot any potential issues.

Application

An electronic surrogate closely replicating the mammalian/human retina offers a timesaving, cost-effective, and ethical option to ensure proper functioning electroretinogram measurements

Advantages

• Clinicians can quickly test ERG devices, eliminating time-consuming setup procedures and costs, as well as the need for dark adaptation required with biological subjects
• The electronic surrogate is a more affordable alternative to frequent calibrations, reducing maintenance costs for ERG devices
• Electronic surrogates eliminate variations in response seen with biological subjects due to genetics or health, providing more consistent testing
• Technicians receive instant feedback on the ERG device's functionality, enabling prompt troubleshooting

Technology

This comprehensive testing system for the electroretinogram (ERG) features a life-like mammalian or human head model with a light-sensitive sensor positioned to replicate the eye's retina. The sensor receives light input from the ERG device and, through an integrated circuit, generates an output voltage for accurately mimicking the human eye's response to light stimuli. The system then analyzes this voltage, compares it to a predetermined acceptable range, and provides clear visual feedback to the user. By simulating the response amplitude of the mammalian/human eye, this technology enables rigorous and reliable testing of ERG devices, ensuring their accuracy and performance in clinical and research settings. The system's ability to precisely replicate the human eye's light sensitivity and signal processing makes it an invaluable tool for evaluating and validating the effectiveness of ERG technology.