Scientists have developed an innovative contact lens that could dramatically improve comfort for individuals suffering from contact lens-associated dry eye. This breakthrough incorporates bacteria that continuously produce a natural lubricant, offering a long-lasting solution to dryness and irritation.
The Problem: Contact Lens-Associated Dry Eye
Contact lens-associated dry eye affects many contact lens users, stemming from disruptions to the eye’s tear film caused by the lens itself. This leads to increased friction and discomfort. Around 9% of users discontinue wearing lenses due to dry eye. Current solutions, including lubricating eye drops and HA-infused lenses, provide only short-term relief, with eye drops requiring frequent reapplication and HA lenses exhausting their lubricant supply after a few hours.
The Innovation: A Living Lens
The newly developed contact lens integrates Corynebacterium glutamicum, a non-toxic bacterium engineered to secrete hyaluronic acid (HA). This natural lubricant is widely used for its ability to retain moisture and reduce friction.
The bacteria are embedded within a hydrogel ring on the lens periphery, keeping them out of the wearer’s field of vision. Unlike traditional lenses, these bioengineered lenses continually replenish HA as the bacteria interact with nutrients from the wearer’s tears and overnight cleaning solutions. Laboratory tests revealed that the lenses maintain lubrication for weeks, significantly enhancing comfort.
Design and Compatibility
The hydrogel material used in the lenses meets commercial standards for transparency, water retention, oxygen permeability, and mechanical stability. This ensures the lenses remain comfortable and effective for extended wear. The embedded bacteria are safely contained within the hydrogel matrix, preventing direct contact with the eye’s surface while allowing HA to diffuse freely.
Challenges and Safety Concerns
Despite its promise, the technology faces challenges related to safety and acceptance. Introducing live bacteria to the eye raises concerns, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems. Initial laboratory studies suggest the lenses are non-toxic and compatible with human cells, but further in vivo studies are required to confirm their safety over prolonged use.
Manufacturing and Market Potential
The lenses are designed to be compatible with existing commercial manufacturing processes, easing potential scalability. However, consumer acceptance will depend on clear demonstrations of safety and efficacy. If successful, these lenses could revolutionize the market, providing a sustainable, long-term solution for millions of contact lens users.
References
- NIH, Self-Lubricating, Living Contact Lenses
- Aránzazu del Campo, et al.
