NIR-Activated Dyes Strengthen Sclera for Myopia Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for myopia, particularly degenerative myopia, are ineffective in addressing the progressive axial elongation and scleral thinning that lead to severe visual loss, as they do not adequately strengthen the sclera to prevent ocular enlargement.
Innovation Solution
The use of near-infrared (NIR) light to induce in situ polymerization or crosslinking of ocular tissues, specifically the sclera, through the application of photoactive compositions that generate singlet oxygen, thereby enhancing mechanical strength and preventing further progression of myopia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional treatments (eyeglasses, contact lenses, refractive surgery) are used for myopia, then refractive error can be corrected, but they cannot prevent progressive scleral thinning and ocular enlargement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using NIR light irradiation to induce photochemical reactions that alter the mechanical properties of scleral tissue. The treatment changes the physical-chemical parameters of collagen in the sclera through singlet oxygen generation, transforming the tissue from a thinning, weak state to a strengthened, more resilient state that can resist ocular enlargement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical reinforcement approaches with a photochemical mechanism. Instead of physically adding structural support or using mechanical devices, the treatment uses NIR light activation of dyes to generate singlet oxygen that triggers crosslinking reactions in collagen, achieving mechanical strengthening through chemical modification
2Strength
If NIR light irradiation is applied to strengthen sclera, then mechanical strength increases, but the treatment requires photoactive compositions and specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary substance (photoactive composition containing dye and additives) to mediate between the NIR light source and the scleral tissue. The dye absorbs NIR energy and converts it to singlet oxygen, which then acts as the active agent for crosslinking collagen. This intermediary approach allows indirect treatment through the cornea while achieving the desired biochemical effect in the sclera
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex surgical mechanical systems with a simpler photochemical system. Instead of requiring open surgery, sutures, or mechanical implants, the treatment uses light activation of chemical compounds to achieve tissue modification, significantly reducing procedural complexity and invasiveness
3Area of stationary object
If scleral thinning progresses in degenerative myopia, then ocular area increases, but visual loss worsens due to retinal atrophy and choroidal neovascularization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by strengthening the sclera before significant ocular enlargement and visual loss occur. The treatment aims to prevent the progressive thinning and stretching of scleral tissue that leads to staphyloma formation and retinal damage. By reinforcing the scleral structure in advance, the treatment counteracts the pathological expansion process before it causes irreversible visual impairment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method minimally invasively strengthens ocular tissues, reducing scleral expansion and slowing the progression of myopia, as demonstrated by significant increases in Young's modulus and reduced ocular area expansion in treated eyes compared to untreated controls.
Implementation Method 1
The compositions are based on certain heptamethine dyes useful for generating singlet oxygen using NIR radiation
Implementation Method 2
methods to treat myopia and other ocular conditions and associated compositions. In some cases, the methods use near-infrared irradiation to improve the mechanical strength of the sclera
Data Source
AI summary
This current disclosure is directed to compositions based on certain heptamethine dyes useful for generating singlet oxygen using NIR radiation, optionally comprising additives and solvents that enhance the performance of these dyes, and procedures using these compositions to modify treat myopia and other ocular conditions. In some cases, the methods use near-infrared irradiation to improve the mechanical strength of the sclera.