Set up for irradiation and performing spectroscopy for human lenses

Abstract

Introduction: In the environment with natural solar irradiation, the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that should be most attentive when it comes to eye health is the ultraviolet. Studies with both animals and cells have shown that chronic exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes significant damage to the eyes structures, particularly the cornea, lens, and retina. Unfortunately, still today, there is controversy regarding the harm caused to the human eye due to exposure of the ocular environment to UVR. There is great methodological difficulty with the use of human lenses, which leads to the increase of controversial results. Aim: Development of a device for that the human lens can be irradiated in a solar simulator and analyzed in spectrophotometer for determination of the UVR effects in the eye. Methodology: A lens holder has been developed using a mathematical model and a 3D printer. Results: The result obtained after ZMorph 3D printer was a very light and effective holder for fitting the lenses as well as the cuvette. Conclusion: The development of this holder will allow different experimental protocols to be performed with the human lens, once this support decreases the need for excessive manipulation of the lens in relation to other supports found in the literature, avoiding the degradation of the tissue. We believe that the development of this holder will contribute in a promising way for future research with human lens, assuring reliable results. Financial support: FAPESP (2013/08038-7 and 2014/16938-0).