Matrix metalloproteinase 9-activatable peptide-conjugated hydrogel-based fluorogenic intraocular-lens sensor.

The eye is an extension of the central nervous system (CNS) and contains aqueous humor (AH), which is a fluid rich in biomolecules secreted from intraocular tissues; thus, this organ allows for non-invasive visualization of early changes in CNS disorders. There is a growing interest in developing implantable devices, such as intraocular-lens (IOL), for specific medical uses, including intraocular monitoring. We describe a novel IOL-sensing system for detecting AH biomarkers via biocompatible enzyme-activatable fluorogenic hydrogel sensors.

A visually distinguishable light interfering bioresponsive silica nanoparticle hydrogel sensor fabricated through the molecular imprinting technique.

Methods of the early detection of diseases are based on recognition of the smallest change in the levels of a disease-specific biomarker in body fluids. Among them, monitoring protein concentrations is crucial because most diseases are caused by dysregulated protein levels, rather than DNA or RNA levels. Recent studies have indicated that the proteins in the aqueous humor can be used as biomarkers to predict brain diseases.