This group activity includes research relating to corneal response to contact lenses, contact lens solutions, and the impact of the environment on cornea and the crystalline lens. Through research conducted by members in this group, it was discovered that long-term exposure to optical radiation (UV and infrared) resulted to significant subtle degeneration of the cornea in a group of exposed workers due to inappropriate use of their protective eyewear. Our current projects involve.
Clinical investigation of different contact lens materials available in Saudi Arabia.
Clinical and laboratory investigation of the relative sensitivity of contact lens solutions.
Diabetes and contact lens wear.
Refractive surgery and visual performance.
Other project concentrates on the mechanisms of acute cataract formation by UV radiation using carmel lenses in culture medium. This phase is essential in order to determine the action spectrum (i.e. damaging thresholds) of carmel lenses. The aim is to compare the data to previous findings with other animal models such as rabbits and monkeys, and to relate our findings to UV cataract formation in humans, especially in a very hot environment. Another phase will concentrate on the mechanisms involved in the long-term chronic toxic effects of UV radiation on the crystalline lens and experimental inhibitory strategies. The level of UV irradiation used will be similar to solar UV radiation levels. Since eye research using live animals has become expensive, carefully conducted long-term in-vitro studies using carmel / dog eyes from university animal facility or local abattoir close to the University is a viable experimental alternative.
Rationale for one of the research activities: Depletion of the atmospheric ozone layer has continued to rise due to increase in certain industrial processes. Longevity of life is increasing all over the world, especially in Saudi Arabia, and maintaining clear vision throughout life is a continuous concern of the public. Data from this study will enable us understand the cellular and molecular mechanis