Spinach-Powered Eye Drops Harness Light to Fight Dry Eye
TL;DR Summary
A team from the National University of Singapore developed LEAF—light-reaction enriched thylakoid NADPH-foundry—by delivering spinach-derived photosynthetic machinery as eye drops. When exposed to ambient light, the transplanted thylakoids generate NADPH in mammalian eye cells to counter ROS, reducing inflammation associated with dry eye. In lab tests and mice, LEAF outperformed Restasis and tear-fluid assays showed oxidant reductions; clinical trials are planned. However, the particles degrade within hours and long-term efficacy and safety in humans remain to be determined, with potential applications for other light-activated therapies.
- Spinach-Based Eye Drops Could Help Treat a Common Eye Condition ScienceAlert
- Plant-based eye drops harness photosynthesis to heal dry eyes News-Medical
- A promising new strategy for treating dry eye disease Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -
- Can eyes self-moisturise under light? NUS study uses ‘photosynthesis’ to treat dry eye disease NUS - National University of Singapore
- Scientists Bioengineer Photosynthesis in the Eyes to Treat Dry Eye Disease ZME Science
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