Combating posterior capsular opacification: From conventional intraocular lens modifications to proactive defense via interface engineering.

ABSTRACT: Posterior capsular opacification (PCO), the most common complication after intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, can be mitigated but is not fully prevented using conventional IOL strategies. These strategies include material optimization (e.g., hydrophobic acrylate), mechanical barrier design (e.g., sharp edges), and biological modifications (e.g., heparin surface-modified IOLs). In this review, we discuss the pathological mechanisms of PCO, briefly trace the evolution of traditional functional IOLs, and critically analyze their limitations in terms of passive defense. We then systematically elaborate on proactive interface engineering-driven strategies, including drug-delivering IOLs, biofunctionalized IOLs, and stimuli-responsive IOLs, that precisely regulate lens epithelial cell (LEC) a

SUBMITTER: Zhao X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12765344 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature