Smart Contact Lenses Get Soft Electrodes

Researchers in Japan have made a groundbreaking advancement in the field of ophthalmology by developing a multi-electrode system integrated into commercial soft contact lenses. This innovative technology aims to revolutionize the detection and diagnosis of various eye diseases.

The smart contact lens proposed by the researchers has the capability to simultaneously measure electrical potentials from different areas of the retina. This feature is crucial for diagnosing a wide range of ocular conditions, providing valuable insights for early intervention and treatment.

Electroretinography (ERG) is a powerful diagnostic tool that involves measuring electric potential in the retina. Traditionally, ERG systems have been built on hard contact lenses, leading to discomfort for patients. To address this issue, the Japanese researchers developed a cutting-edge multi-electrode system on soft disposable contact lenses.

Eye diseases are on the rise globally, attributed to factors such as an aging population and increased screen time. With the continuous advancement of technologies like virtual and augmented reality, the demand for improved diagnostic techniques for early detection and monitoring of ocular diseases is more pressing than ever.

The electrical potentials measured on the retina hold crucial information for diagnosing eye diseases such as glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa. The newly developed multi-electrode system offers a convenient and efficient way to make these measurements, potentially transforming the way eye diseases are diagnosed and managed.