Layer-by-layer self-assembled smart antibacterial coatings for surface management of orthokeratology lens

Abstract

ABSTRACT Orthokeratology (OK) lenses are designed to reshape the cornea overnight, allowing users to see clearly during the day without glasses. However, prolonged wear increases the risk of microbial contamination and eye infections. Even with cleaning techniques, the surface of OK lenses can become contaminated due to residual bacterial debris. Therefore, developing self-cleaning antibacterial technology for OK lens surfaces is an urgent clinical challenge. Herein, we integrated the temperature responsiveness of PNIPAM molecular chains with the surface contact-killing mechanism of AMP into the surface of OK lenses for the first time, constructing an intelligent OK lens with synergistic antibacterial and self-cleaning properties. The modified OK lenses can achieve over 95% bacterial efficiency against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. More importantly, in both worn and removed states, the modified OK lenses can achieve a surface bacterial debris self-cleaning efficiency of 50–75%. These research findings provide important references and insights for the future development of more efficient self-cleaning lens materials.