Scientists from Heriot-Watt University are working with experts from Edinburgh Biosciences Ltd., the University of Edinburgh, and other partner organizations in Sweden and Denmark to develop a new LED technology allowing clinicians to potentially diagnose and monitor cataracts before they form.
The technology reportedly uses a florescence signal from proteins in the eye lens, documenting changes in the photochemistry of the eye during cataract formation. This results in an objective diagnostic scale that could allow doctors to potentially diagnose and monitor cataracts before they form and take preventative measures when possible.
Researchers also believe their technology can help doctors determine a patient's "true age" as it identifies the amount of oxidative damage accumulated on the lens, which can be an important in determining risk factors for a number of age-related conditions.
The research team reportedly plans to conduct further studies in pigs to validate their findings, and eventually transfer their technology to clinical trials.
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Source: Heriot-Watt University