New Hydrogel Contact Lens Developed to Treat Corneal Melting
Overview of Corneal Melting
A research team from the University of New Hampshire has created an innovative hydrogel contact lens aimed at treating corneal melting, a serious eye condition that is a leading cause of blindness globally. Corneal melting is characterized by the uncontrolled degradation of corneal tissue and can stem from various factors including infections, inflammation, trophic causes, chemical burns, or complications from eye surgery.
Mechanism of Corneal Melting
This debilitating eye disease occurs when ocular immune cells excessively produce collagen-degrading enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The activity of these enzymes is closely linked to the presence of zinc ions, which are integral to their function.
Current Treatment Options
Existing treatments for corneal melting include the topical application of steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the use of tissue adhesives, and corneal transplantation. Unfortunately, no definitive cure has been established for this condition to date.
MMP Inhibitors as a Treatment
Recently, a class of drugs known as MMP inhibitors has shown promise in managing corneal melting by binding to the zinc ions within MMPs. However, these inhibitors can lead to significant side effects when released into the bloodstream, as they may deactivate zinc ions in other bodily tissues.
Innovation in Hydrogel Contact Lenses
In a study funded by the National Eye Institute and the NIH Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence, the University of New Hampshire team unveiled a new hydrogel contact lens that effectively slows the progression of corneal melting by deactivating MMPs. By incorporating polar organic substances into the hydrogel, the lens can selectively target and deactivate zinc ions.
Laboratory Testing Results
Laboratory tests conducted on extracted corneal tissue demonstrated that the new hydrogel contact lens successfully deactivated MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9, which are the primary MMPs implicated in corneal melting. Unlike traditional MMP inhibitors, this hydrogel is designed for direct application to the cornea, thus reducing the risk of severe nonspecific side effects.
Future Implications and Research
This groundbreaking development offers a novel approach to mitigating the progression of corneal melting and related ocular diseases. The research team has filed for a pending patent and further studies are necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of this innovative product.
Reference
Lopez, C et al. Matrix Metalloproteinase-Deactivating Contact Lens for Corneal Melting. ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering, 2019; 5:1195-1199. DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b01404.