Cellular Changes from Long-Term Contact Lens Wear | Implications for Corneal Health and Disease Risks

In this episode of SciBud, we’re diving into groundbreaking research on the long-term effects of contact lens wear on eye health! Join Rowan as we explore a study utilizing cutting-edge single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to reveal significant molecular changes in the corneal epithelium of myopic patients after over a decade of contact lens use. Discover how this prolonged wear leads to increased keratinization, heightened inflammation, and concerning signs of cellular aging, potentially compromising the eye’s protective barrier. While these findings underscore the importance of careful contact lens management, the episode also discusses the need for further research to fully understand these changes. Tune in to learn how this research impacts eye care professionals and what it might mean for your vision! Link to episode page with article citation: www.scibud.media/podcast/season/2025/episode/146