Protector Role of Intraocular Lenses under Artificial Light Conditions

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this work was to analyze, in an in vitro model, the possible protective effects of ultraviolet- (UV-) or UV/blue-filtering intraocular lens (IOL) under light-emitting diode (LED) lighting conditions. Methods: Ten models of IOLs were evaluated. Light transmission spectrum was recorded from 300 to 800 nm, in steps of 1 nm. Photodamage in vitro model was induced in ARPE-19 cells by blue LED light (465–475 nm). Changes in cell viability and oxidative stress variables were studied to assess the protective effect of IOLs. Results: UV/blue-filtering IOLs models block blue light spectrum in different proportion and UV-filtering IOLs blocking wavelength below 400 nm. However, in vitro study under blue LED light exposure does not show protective effects related with mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress of UV/blue-filtering IOLs. Conclusions: The current in vitro study suggests that UV/blue filtering IOLs are not useful in terms of photoprotection in artificial light conditions. The results obtained indicate that it is needed to give attention to other IOL parameters besides the type of filter, as it seems they could have influence on the protective role.