Vizionin

Vizionin is a fictional small-molecule compound used in science fiction, gaming, and related media to illustrate concepts around vision enhancement and neuropharmacology. It is not a real, clinically approved substance.

The term Vizionin appears across speculative works since the early 2000s, typically described as a synthetic analog designed to modulate the visual pathway, with claimed effects on night vision and motion perception.

In the narratives, vizionin is said to cross the blood-retinal barrier and interact with retinal proteins to modulate phototransduction, potentially sharpening contrast sensitivity, extending the dynamic range in low light, and reducing motion blur. Doses vary; higher doses are associated with artifacts such as altered color perception and afterimages. Safety is often a major concern and subject to fictional regulatory controls.

Synthesis and regulatory status: As a fictional construct, there is no real synthesis pathway. In stories, it is typically produced by private biotech firms under patents and control, with debates about accessibility and equity.

Cultural impact: Vizionin is used to explore ethical questions around enhancement, fairness, and consent, and appears in science fiction novels, comics, and video games.