They began to react to light. Scientists were able to restore activity to the dying cells of the human eye for a moment. Read about how they did it in Science Alert. Discuss of a person after death” alt=”Scientists have restored glimpses of activity in the eyes of a person after his death” Scientists have restored glimmers of activity in the eyes of a person after his death />
To better understand how nerve cells react to a lack of oxygen, a group of American researchers measured the activity of mouse and human retinal cells shortly after their death. With a few changes in the tissue's environment, the scientists were able to restore the cells' ability to bind.
When stimulated with light, the retinas of the deceased have been shown to emit specific electrical signals known as b-waves. This called into question the irreversible nature of dying in the central nervous system.
“We were able to awaken photoreceptor cells in the human macula, which is part of the retina responsible for our central vision and our ability to see small details and colors,” the scientists explained, “In the eyes of an organ donor, five hours after death, these cells reacted to bright lights, colored lights, and even very dim flashes of light.”