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Thursday, 13th November 2008 (845 views)

German scientists have used gold in a study that could lead to the development of contact lenses that are resistant to germs.

A team of researchers from Ruhr University conducted work into how proteins react when a foreign item - such as an implant or contact lens - are introduced to the body.

They grew 'biofilms' on a layer of gold, which served as a platter for the team to create a surface that was totally resistant to proteins - a feat that is "highly desirable" for applications such as contact lens technology.

Contact lens wearers usually have to store their lenses in a saline solution to remove proteins before placing them back into the eyes - a practice that may be rendered obsolete by the new development.

The breakthrough could also help scientists to predict the likelihood of an implant being rejected by a human body.

Recently, biomedical engineers at UC Davis developed a method of creating 'smart' contact lenses that can detect the onset of glaucoma.

 

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