Surface and Antifouling Properties of a Biomimetic Reusable Contact Lens Material

Abstract

A comprehensive in vitro and ex vivo study was conducted for a newly developed biomimetic silicone hydrogel contact lens material, lehfilcon A, with poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) surface modification. In vitro studies, including Sudan Black staining and fluorescence imaging, were executed to assess the surface wettability and lipid deposition of contact lenses after simulated prolonged exposure. Additionally, the lens surface softness and lubricity were characterized by ex vivo studies, including atomic force microscopy and tribological testing. The PMPC-modified surface stayed hydrophilic and resisted lipid accumulation during the simulated wearing cycles. The coefficient of friction and surface modulus were maintained, even after 30 days of patient use. These findings demonstrate that the PMPC-modified material offers exceptional surface properties and antifouling performance, presenting an advancement in biomimetic contact lens technology.