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Project # 12
Reducing Post-Cataract Complications in Myopic Eyes Through Optimized IOL-Lens Capsule Interactions

Team Lead: Vicki Ea
Other Team Members: Jacara Smith | Angelica Okoroha
Faculty Advisor(s): Liping Tang
Department: BE
Project Type: Graduate Student
Title: Reducing Post-Cataract Complications in Myopic Eyes Through Optimized IOL-Lens Capsule Interactions
Abstract: Purpose: Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is particularly common in highly myopic eyes implanted with low diopter intraocular lenses (IOLs). These IOLs typically have flat posterior surfaces, or high posterior radii of curvature (PRC). We hypothesized that in myopic eyes—where the posterior lens capsule (PLC) is enlarged—this curvature mismatch reduces IOL-to-capsule contact, increasing interface space and enabling lens epithelial cell (LEC) migration. Methods: Three-dimensional simulated PLC (sPLC) models replicating myopic anatomy were fabricated. Three acrylic square-edged IOLs with different PRCs were tested: high PRC (88.3 mm), medium PRC (26.5 mm), and low PRC (17.67 mm). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) quantified IOL:sPLC interface space, and adhesion force was measured using a custom apparatus. Human lens epithelial cells (HLE B3) were seeded at the interface to evaluate PRC-dependent LEC infiltration. Results: High PRC IOLs produced the largest interface space (0.77±0.09 mm). Medium and low PRC IOLs significantly reduced this space (0.04±0.02 mm and 0.01±0.01 mm; p<0.01). Adhesion force increased as PRC decreased. Reduced PRC IOLs demonstrated markedly lower LEC infiltration, with a 56% reduction compared to high PRC IOLs. Conclusion: Flat, high PRC IOLs poorly match the enlarged PLC of myopic eyes, increasing interface space and enabling LEC migration—providing a mechanistic basis for elevated PCO risk. Designing low diopter IOLs with reduced PRC may enhance capsule conformity and reduce PCO in highly myopic patients.
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