Photothermal and cascade ROS generative multilayer as intraocular lens surface coating for effective posterior
Renjie Zhang1, Qingqing Jia1, Jiahao Wang1
1National Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmology and Optometry, School of Biomedical Engineering, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
Regenerative Biomaterials
|March 16, 2026
Summary
This study presents a novel intraocular lens (IOL) modification using gold nanoparticles@metal-organic frameworks (AuNPs@MIL) to prevent posterior capsule opacification (PCO). The modified IOL effectively inhibits human lens epithelial cell (HLEC) proliferation via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and photothermal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common complication after cataract surgery, driven by residual human lens epithelial cell (HLEC) proliferation.
- Current intraocular lens (IOL) surface modifications for PCO prevention face challenges in long-term effectiveness and biocompatibility.
- Existing methods using reactive oxygen species (ROS) are limited by enzyme instability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a stable and effective PCO prevention strategy using modified IOLs.
- To investigate the efficacy of gold nanoparticles@metal-organic frameworks (AuNPs@MIL) for inhibiting HLEC proliferation and migration.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of AuNPs@MIL composite using Fe3+-containing MIL metal-organic frameworks to support gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
- Modification of IOL material with AuNPs@MIL via electrostatic layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly.
- Evaluation of the cascade catalytic process for ROS generation (·OH) and assessment of photothermal therapy (PTT) effects.
- In vitro and in vivo studies to assess PCO prevention, biocompatibility, and optical properties.
Main Results:
- The AuNPs@MIL modified IOL demonstrated a cascade catalytic process generating ROS (·OH) and utilizing NIR-induced PTT.
- Effective inhibition of HLEC proliferation and migration was observed, leading to significant PCO prevention.
- The modified IOL exhibited good biocompatibility and excellent optical properties in both in vitro and in vivo models.
Conclusions:
- AuNPs@MIL modified IOLs offer a promising, stable, and biocompatible solution for long-term PCO prevention.
- The combined ROS generation and PTT approach provides a multi-faceted strategy against post-cataract surgery complications.
