Structural Color Contact Lenses from Cholesteric Cellulose Liquid Crystals

Colored contact lenses have gained popularity among young individuals owing to their ability to alter the appearance of the wearer's eyes. However, conventional lenses containing chemical dyes are susceptible to detachment of the pigment layer, which can lead to corneal damage. In this research, a novel cellulose-based structural color contact lens (SCCL) is presented that enhances aesthetic appeal via a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) layer. Methacrylate-functionalized hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPCMA) molecules self-assemble into CLC and are cross-linked within the lens mold, resulting in the colored iris region of the contact lens. By employing multistep polymerization techniques, lenses with composite colors and intricate shapes are fabricated. Moreover, by incorporating bioderived antimicrobial peptides into the structurally colored region of the lens, SCCLs are achieved with good biocompatibility, controlled drug release, and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. The results of in vivo experiments using an animal model indicate that the SCCLs perform well in the treatment of bacterial keratitis. It is believed that these drug-loaded structurally colored contact lenses will lead to various advancements in ocular medical devices and provide antibacterial protection against infectious keratitis in the future.