Smart contact lenses for monitoring eye pressure in glaucoma patients

Smart soft contact lenses for continuous 24-hour monitoring of intraocular pressure in glaucoma care

NIH-funded research Purdue University · NIH-11045646

This study is testing new soft contact lenses that can keep track of eye pressure for people with glaucoma, helping them get better care by providing important information about their eye pressure, especially while they sleep.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPurdue University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Lafayette, United States)
Project IDNIH-11045646 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative soft contact lenses that can continuously monitor intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma. By providing real-time data on IOP fluctuations, especially during sleep when pressure peaks may occur unnoticed, these lenses aim to enhance patient care and management of glaucoma. The study will involve optimizing the design and functionality of these smart lenses to ensure comfort and effectiveness for long-term wear. Patients will benefit from a more accurate understanding of their eye pressure patterns, which is crucial for preventing vision loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those at high risk of developing the condition.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to intraocular pressure or those who do not wear contact lenses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management of glaucoma, potentially preventing vision loss and enhancing the quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on wearable ocular tonometers has shown promise, but this approach with smart contact lenses is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

West Lafayette, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions age related macular disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.