Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant advancements and achievements of Zhejiang Norkang Neuroelectronic Technology Co., Ltd. in the field of neuroelectronic medical devices, particularly in the development of China's first self-researched cochlear implant, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and domestic production [2][7][10]. Company Overview - Zhejiang Norkang is recognized as a national-level specialized and innovative "little giant" enterprise, focusing on the research and development of neuroelectronic medical devices [2]. - The company has successfully developed a world-first saddle-shaped electrode, breaking the technological monopoly held by Western countries [2][7]. Key Achievements - Norkang's cochlear implant has achieved a market share of 30% globally, ranking third overall and first among domestic brands, helping over 20,000 hearing-impaired patients [10]. - The company received the medical device certificate from the National Medical Products Administration in August 2011, marking it as the only Chinese company with independent intellectual property rights in this field [7]. Technological Innovations - The company has developed a 24-channel cochlear electrode, which is the most advanced in terms of the number of channels and the smallest diameter, achieving a significant technological breakthrough [7][8]. - Norkang's electrode technology has evolved from a cap shape to a more precise saddle shape, with the diameter reduced from 0.72 mm to 0.35 mm [7]. Market Impact - The initial pricing of Norkang's cochlear implant was set at 78,000 yuan, which is one-third of the price of imported devices, significantly reducing the financial burden on patients [10]. - The company has been included in centralized procurement programs in several provinces, allowing patients to access the implant for as low as 18,500 yuan [11]. Future Prospects - Norkang aims to achieve nearly 90% localization of raw materials for its cochlear implants and is actively working on overcoming challenges related to liquid silicone, a critical component [11]. - The company is committed to maintaining control over innovation and development, which will enhance its resilience against external shocks [11].

Core Insights - China holds over 60% of the global rare earth mineral production and has a near-monopoly in the rare earth processing sector, which is crucial for high-tech manufacturing and now for advancements in artificial retina technology [1] - Researchers have developed an artificial retina using tellurium, a mineral primarily sourced from China, which not only restored vision in blind animals but also granted them "super vision" to see infrared light, presenting significant hope for human blindness treatment [1][2] Group 1 - The artificial retina was created using tellurium nanowires, which were implanted in genetically blind mice and monkeys, restoring their vision and enabling them to detect "invisible" light [1][2] - Tellurium, a byproduct of copper refining, is rare and has excellent optoelectronic properties, making it suitable for applications in semiconductors, thermoelectric cooling, solar cells, and infrared detection [1] - The research team utilized chemical deposition techniques to create a network of 150-nanometer tellurium nanowires, which served as a retinal nanostructure, successfully restoring the pupillary reflex in blind mice and stimulating visual cortex activity [2] Group 2 - The implanted devices showed no complications, and the treated mice began to regain normal vision the day after surgery, demonstrating enhanced performance in pattern recognition and light source localization compared to untreated blind mice [2] - The tellurium nanowire implants were also tested in normal monkeys, where they increased sensitivity to near-infrared light, confirming the safety and biocompatibility of the implants [2] - The method developed by researchers has the potential to create a new generation of devices that convert light into neural stimulation signals, aiding many blind individuals in regaining limited but useful vision [3]