Current Innovations in Intraocular Pressure Monitoring Biosensors for Diagnosis and Treatment of Glaucoma—Novel Strategies and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Biosensors are devices that quantify biologically significant information required for diverse applications, such as disease diagnosis, food safety, drug discovery and detection of environmental pollutants. Recent advancements in microfluidics, nanotechnology and electronics have led to the development of novel implantable and wearable biosensors for the expedient monitoring of diseases such as diabetes, glaucoma and cancer. Glaucoma is an ocular disease which ranks as the second leading cause for loss of vision. It is characterized by the increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) in human eyes, which results in irreversible blindness. Currently, the reduction of IOP is the only treatment used to manage glaucoma. However, the success rate of medicines used to treat glaucoma is quite minimal due to their curbed bioavailability and reduced therapeutic efficacy. The drugs must pass through various barriers to reach the intraocular space, which in turn serves as a major challenge in glaucoma treatment. Rapid progress has been observed in nano-drug delivery systems for the early diagnosis and prompt therapy of ocular diseases. This review gives a deep insight into the current advancements in the field of nanotechnology for detecting and treating glaucoma, as well as for the continuous monitoring of IOP. Various nanotechnology-based achievements, such as nanoparticle/nanofiber-based contact lenses and biosensors that can efficiently monitor IOP for the efficient detection of glaucoma, are also discussed.

Smart molecules in ophthalmology: Hydrogels as responsive systems for ophthalmic applications

“…The gold standard for patient's IOP assessment is the goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) in a doctor's office [65] . The method possesses several limitations as it not only involves a major time and space restriction but is also unable to provide a continuous recording of the patient's IOP [65] .…”

“…The gold standard for patient's IOP assessment is the goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) in a doctor's office [65] . The method possesses several limitations as it not only involves a major time and space restriction but is also unable to provide a continuous recording of the patient's IOP [65] . As IOP can fluctuate due to postural changes or personal circadian rhythm, the one‐time IOP recording of GAT greatly challenges the ability of both patients and clinicians to holistically evaluate IOP trends [66] .…”

Vinyl Polymers as Key Materials in Contact Lens Design: A Review of Progress and Future Directions

“…Enhanced surface lubricity and stability can reduce friction between the lens and the ocular tissues, minimizing movement and improving comfort. [ 85–87 ]…”

Approaches of wearable and implantable biosensor towards of developing in precision medicine

“…These devices allow for continuous monitoring of ocular health parameters, enabling early detection of ocular abnormalities and timely interventions. One significant application of contact lens sensors is the measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial for diagnosing and managing glaucoma ( Figure 4F ) ( 112 , 118 ). Wearable contact lenses offer the potential for at-home monitoring without the need for patients to stay awake during measurements.…”