Abstract
Purpose: :
Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is caused by the proliferation and migration of residual lens epithelium cells (LECs) after extra capsular cataract extraction (ECCE). Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is known to have great effects on preventing deposition of protein and adhesion of cells. The aim of this study was to modify the surface of an intraocular lens material and investigate the efficacy of PEG on resistance of posterior capsular opacification in-vitro.
Methods: :
Poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMEM) was grafted onto the surface of a excellent IOL materials--poly(dimethyl siloxane) via a plasma technique. FT-IR, static contact angle measurement, SEM and AFM were used to analyze the surface chemical composition, hydrophilicity, morphology. Human lens epithelial cells (HLEC) were seeded onto these materials and cultured for 1 week to study its anti-cell fouling properties.
Results: :
PEGMEM grafting significantly changed surface chemical composition and improved hydrophilicity of surfaces. HLEC grew on all surfaces but fewer cells adhered to treated than the untreated surfaces.
Conclusions: :
Elimination of residual lens epithelial cell was vital to combat PCO. PEGMEM grafting on to IOL materials surface increased their hydrophilicity and controlled HLEC adhesion. We believe that controlled adhesion of lens epithelial cells may reduce the incidence of PCO.
Keywords: intraocular lens • posterior capsular opacification (PCO) • optical properties