Smart contact lenses could diagnose and treat diabetes

A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology’s department of materials science and engineering, claims to have developed a wireless powered smart contact lens that can diagnose and treat diabetes by controlling drug-delivery with electrical signals.

Typically, type one diabetes is managed with regular injections of insulin and monitoring blood glucose levels throughout a person’s life, however, this research offers an alternative option.

The smart contact lenses are made of biocompatible polymers and integrate biosensors and drug delivery and data communication systems.

Professor Sei Kwang Han who led the research, explained how he believes that “the commercialisation of wireless-powered medical devices for diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and retinopathy is insufficient."

He added: "We expect that this research will greatly contribute to the advancement of related industries by being the first in developing wireless-powered smart contact lenses equipped with drug delivery system for diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, and treatment of retinopathy."

The research was published in the journal, Science Advances.