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Development of an In Vitro Ocular Platform to Test Contact Lenses
Published on: April 6, 2016
Rational design of antibiotic-free antimicrobial contact lenses: Trade-offs between antimicrobial performance and
Qiang Zhu1, Jian Guan2, Bin Tian3
1School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China.
Abstract:
Microbial keratitis associated with contact lenses (CLs) wear remains a significant clinical concern. Antibiotic therapy is the current standard of care. However, the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens necessitates the investigation of alternative strategies. Antibiotic-free antimicrobial contact lenses (AFAMCLs) represent a promising approach in this regard. The effectiveness of CLs constructed with a variety of antibiotic-free antimicrobial strategies against microorganisms has been demonstrated. However, the impact of these antimicrobial strategies on CLs biocompatibility remains unclear. In the design and development of AFAMCLs, striking a balance between robust antimicrobial performance and optimal biocompatibility, including safety and wearing comfort, is a key issue. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in AFAMCLs technology. The focus is on the antimicrobial efficacy and safety of various strategies employed in AFAMCLs construction. Furthermore, this review investigates the potential impact of these strategies on CLs parameters related to wearer comfort. This review aims to contribute to the continuous improvement of AFAMCLs and provide a reference for the trade-off between resistance to microorganisms and wearing comfort. In addition, it is hoped that this review can also provide a reference for the antimicrobial design of other medical devices.
Insights
Antibiotic-free antimicrobial contact lenses (AFAMCLs) offer a promising alternative to traditional treatments for microbial keratitis. This review explores their efficacy and impact on wearer comfort and safety.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microbial keratitis from contact lens (CL) wear is a major concern.
- Antibiotic resistance necessitates novel antimicrobial strategies.
- Antibiotic-free antimicrobial contact lenses (AFAMCLs) are emerging as a potential solution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in AFAMCL technology.
- To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and safety of various AFAMCL strategies.
- To assess the impact of these strategies on CL biocompatibility and wearer comfort.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of AFAMCLs.
- Analysis of studies on antimicrobial efficacy.
- Evaluation of biocompatibility and wearer comfort data.
Main Results:
- Various antibiotic-free strategies demonstrate antimicrobial effectiveness in CLs.
- The impact of these strategies on CL biocompatibility and wearer comfort requires further investigation.
- Balancing antimicrobial performance with biocompatibility is crucial for AFAMCL development.
Conclusions:
- AFAMCLs show promise for managing microbial keratitis.
- Further research is needed to optimize AFAMCLs for both efficacy and wearer comfort.
- Findings may inform the design of other antimicrobial medical devices.
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