Self-moisturizing contact lens helps dry eye symptoms

A revolutionary self-moisturizing contact lens has been developed by researchers at Tohoku University in Japan. The smart contact lens utilizes electro-osmotic flow to maintain a layer of fluid between the contact lens and the eye.

Researchers were able to use a wireless power supply and used two kinds of non-toxic batteries: a magnesium-oxygen battery and an enzymatic fructose-oxygen fuel cell. Either battery is able to be mounted directly on the charged contact lens.

The batteries create a voltage across the charged surface and causes fluid to flow upwards from the patient's temporary tear reservoir behind the lower eyelid to the surface of the eye.

Further research and testing needs to be done to create a lens that is tougher and has the ability to operate at smaller currents but researchers are encouraged by the early results.