According to a study published in Microsystems & Nanoengineering, researchers from China's University of Electronic Science and Technology have created a stretchy bimodal contact lens (BCL) that can detect IOP and EM when the eyelids are closed.
Design and characterization of the stretchable BCL. Image Credit: Microsystems & Nanoengineering
Eye health monitoring is about to undergo a radical change because of a new type of smart contact lens. This stretchy lens integrates movement and pressure sensing into a single, small, wireless device that can function even while the eyes are closed.
It provides a high-resolution, noninvasive method of monitoring important ocular indicators, including eye movement (EM) and intraocular pressure (IOP), which are crucial for treating long-term diseases like glaucoma.
The lens, which has been successfully tested in both human and animal models, gives precise, real-time data to external devices without compromising comfort or vision. This discovery may revolutionize the way we identify and treat eye conditions.
Over a billion individuals worldwide suffer from vision diseases, with glaucoma being one of the most insidious due to its gradual, symptom-free growth. Key indicators like as increased IOP and irregular eye movement (EM) sometimes go undetected, particularly during sleep, when typical open-eye devices fail.
Nocturnal intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes and rapid eye movement (REM)-related EM events are critical for detecting and avoiding damage. Smart contact lenses have emerged as a viable alternative, but most are designed for open-eye use and struggle to gather dual-modal data accurately. Due to these constraints, there is an increasing demand for wearable devices that can provide continuous, closed-eye monitoring with accuracy and comfort.
The device's integration of capacitive and magnetic sensors into a single, wirelessly linked platform allows for round-the-clock eye health surveillance, opening up a new route toward individualized, proactive therapy.
The BCL consists of five layers of highly developed materials, including serpentine copper coils for pressure sensing and a neodymium-infused magnetic film for movement detection. This flexible construction allows the lens to organically contour to the eye, reducing discomfort and maintaining vision. In rabbit models, the lens showed exceptional sensitivity to IOP variations, with resolution down to 1 mmHg and improved signal stability even while the eyes were closed.
EM detection achieved over 97% accuracy in lab models and human testing through the use of an integrated glasses-mounted Tesla meter array. Wireless relaying of lens data to mobile devices supports real-time feedback.
Crucially, biocompatibility testing verified that there are no indications of inflammation or vision disturbance and that the device is safe for prolonged use. When combined, these characteristics offer a unique blend of accuracy, comfort, and usefulness for both daily and clinical applications.
This technology bridges a long-standing gap in ophthalmic care. The ability to monitor both IOP and EM continuously—even when the eyes are closed—offers a more complete picture of eye health. It enables early intervention and more accurate tracking of disease progression, particularly for glaucoma patients. And because it's wireless and wearable, it can be used comfortably at home, not just in clinics.
Dr. Guang Yao, Study Co-Lead Author, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
Through EM patterns, this dual-sensing lens could be helpful in tracking neurodegenerative diseases, attention-related illnesses, and even sleep quality in addition to glaucoma. Patients may remotely exchange data with physicians, thanks to their wireless connectivity with mobile devices, which promotes telemedicine and cuts down on in-person appointments.
Subsequent versions may integrate drug delivery capabilities, transforming the lens into a closed-loop therapeutic and diagnostic device. The BCL platform creates new opportunities for smart medical wearables in customized healthcare due to its adaptable design and proven safety.
National Natural Science Foundation of China under grant numbers 62422104, U21A20460, 62371115, 52021001; Science and Technology Major Project of Tibetan Autonomous Region of China under grant no. XZ202201ZD0001G; Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province under grant no. 2024NSFSC0234; and the Medico-Engineering Cooperation Funds, Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, UESTC under grant nos. ZYGX2020ZB041, ZYGX2021YGLH002 supported the study.
Journal Reference:
Gan, X., et al. (2025) Closed-eye intraocular pressure and eye movement monitoring via a stretchable bimodal contact lens. Microsystems & Nanoengineering. doi.org/10.1038/s41378-025-00946-y