The lights of video games, the computer screen, even watching TV: for those who suffer from photosensitive epilepsy, these are all daily gestures that can become a risk. But research does not stop: a British team has developed smart lenses that could offer almost total protection from dangerous wavelengths.
How Photosensitive Epilepsy Protective Lenses Work
The heart of innovation lies in the liquid crystals that make up the lenses. According to the study published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science (as always I'll link it to you here: on Futuro Prossimo we always attach the original studies) these special materials respond to minimal temperature variations, activating a protection mechanism. The temperature is controlled by a discrete circuit integrated into the frame of the glasses.
Professor Zubair Ahmed, neuroscientist of theUniversity of Birmingham and co-author of the study, explains:
This is a hugely exciting project that seemed like science fiction when we started work four years ago.
Targeted and effective protection
The new lenses have been designed to specifically block wavelengths between 660 and 720 nanometers, which represent the most problematic spectrum for most people with photosensitive epilepsy. The effectiveness is amazing: They are able to filter out over 98% of potentially dangerous light.
Future challenges and developments
Professor Rami Ghannam ofUniversity of Glasgow, lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration:
The project demonstrates how collaboration between disciplines as diverse as engineering, neuroscience and mathematics can lead to potential discoveries that could transform patients’ lives.
Of course, there are still challenges to overcome. The current prototype works effectively only in environments with temperatures up to 26°C, and the heating and cooling times of the lenses still need to be optimized. The prospects, however, are incredible.
A promising technology
The research represents a significant step towards a practical solution for those living with photosensitive epilepsy. The innovative approach of the British researchers does not just protect against seizures, but aims to concretely improve the quality of life of patients.
The team is already working to refine the prototype before moving on to the human trials phase. If these developments are successful, we could be looking at a significant breakthrough in the field of neurology and care for epileptic patients.
Lenses against photosensitive epilepsy, prospects for the future
Photosensitive epilepsy has always placed significant limitations on the daily lives of those who suffer from it. These new lenses represent not only a technological advance, but a concrete hope for greater autonomy and safety for patients.
Collaboration between University of Glasgow e University of Birmingham demonstrates how a multidisciplinary approach is essential to address complex medical challenges. The next stages of development will be crucial to determine the actual applicability of this technology in real life.
