Photochemical reversal of cataract

Abstract

SummaryGlobally, cataract is the second leading cause of blindness. Current treatment consists of surgical removal of the lens of the eye. Although sight‐threatening complications are rare they do occur. Opting for a non‐surgical treatment would abolish the risks associated with a surgical procedure (e.g. infection, bleeding, retinal detachments). Cataract is caused by a clouding of the lens due to accumulation of large protein aggregates. We have proposed to photochemically reverse the optical deterioration of the aged human lens. We have shown on human donor lenses that irradiation with visible light significantly improves the transmission of light through the lens. Although these results are promising, visible light may not be an attractive option for photochemical reversal of cataract due to the risk of retinal light induced damage. To overcome this obstacle, we have shown that the same effects can be obtained via two‐photon photolysis using a safe infra‐red femtosecond pulsed laser. Clinically relevant effects (up to 15 years of optical lens rejuvenation) have been demonstrated.