LEDs capable of beating cataract to the punch

An LED technique that identifies molecules within the eye that occur during the formation of cataracts has been developed by scientists at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.

Using new biochemical information, the technique allows clinicians to examine a florescence signal from proteins in the eye.

By documenting the changes to the photochemistry of the eye during cataract formation, an objective scale for diagnosis can be created which could save global health services millions annually.

Head of the institute for biological chemistry, biophysics and bioengineering at Heriot-Watt University Professor Rory Duncan said: ‘Rather than waiting for the condition to appear, it could be possible to diagnose and monitor cataract before it forms, allowing preventative measures to be taken where possible.’