UNIVERSITY of Bradford scientists have developed a pioneering 'smart contact lens' to test for eye infections in a quick and non-invasive way.

It is hoped the test could eventually be available to the general public – both in the UK and internationally – and it has been hailed the next big leap in the global fight against preventable blindness.

It could even prevent deaths caused by fungal eye infections in developing countries. 

Professor of Chemistry at the University of Bradford, Stephen Rimmer, said: “We have produced a smart hydrogel which can detect two types of bacteria and fungus.

“This device is made from materials similar to those used to make contact lenses, which would be safely applied to the eye. The microorganisms get stuck to the material and can then be analysed.”

Currently, detecting which bacteria or fungus is present in an eye infection is an invasive process where a tissue sample of the patient’s eye is taken under anaesthetic.

The sample is then cultured – which can take two days – before being studied under a microscope. 

Professor Rimmer’s test would involve the patient wearing the lens for an hour, with the results determined soon afterwards.

“The current method is not a nice procedure and takes time,” he added.

“We are working on producing a visible colour change on the lens to show which bacteria or fungus is present. This could then be photographed and uploaded to a website for an expert to analyse.

“The expert could then determine whether the patient needs antibiotics or further investigation.

“Our goal is that someone on the street could do it with no training.”

Initial tests have yielded positive results and human trials will be carried out when further funding is secured. 

The test could be vital in developing, tropical countries, where infections are often detected too late to save a person’s eye. 

In India there has been a rise in deaths from mucormycosis, or ‘black fungus’, and people with diabetes and those who have been treated for Covid-19 with steroids have an almost 50 per cent mortality rate.

Professor Rimmer is working with the world-leading L V Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad, India, as well as Dr Tom Swift, lecturer in polymer chemistry at the University of Bradford.

“Eye infections in places like India can prove catastrophic,” Professor Rimmer said.

“We know our method works in the lab. What we want to do now is make it so someone can use it in a rural clinic in India.”