In a recent study published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science, researchers from the Universities of Glasgow and Birmingham have created a liquid crystal lens prototype that they think could benefit people with photosensitive epilepsy.
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A prototype pair of spectacles with lenses that filter out wavelengths known to trigger seizures in certain individuals could help those with photosensitive epilepsy.
When engaged, the lenses can block over 98% of light in the 660–720 nm wavelength range, which is known to affect the largest number of persons with photosensitive epilepsy. They are controlled by very slight temperature changes that can be included in the lens.
This is a hugely exciting project that felt like a science fiction project when we first started the work 4 years ago. This paper demonstrates the potential for the use of liquid crystal lenses that can be modulated to cut out specific wavelengths of light.
Zubair Ahmed, Professor and Study Co-Author, Department of Neuroscience, University of Birmingham
Ahmed said, “The prototype shows how a discrete circuit installed in the frame of a pair of glasses can power these lenses and be used in situations where certain wavelength light is likely to trigger a seizure, such as while watching TV or playing computer games. The circuit heats the lenses to a comfortable temperature for wearers that will also cut out more than 98% of light with a wavelength that can cause seizures.”
The project shows how collaboration between different disciplines such as engineering, neuroscience, and mathematics can bring about potential discoveries that could transform the lives of patients affected by various diseases. We are now developing this prototype further to improve its performance before we take this into human studies.
Rami Ghannam, Professor and Study Lead Author, University of Glasgow
The current prototype proved viable in rooms with temperatures as high as 26 °C, according to the scientists, and more technological adjustments would be required to accommodate applications in hotter climates. The team also points out that there is room to improve the prototype's heating and cooling times.
Journal Reference:
Xia, Y., et al. (2024) Thermal-controlled cholesteric liquid crystal wavelength filter lens for photosensitive epilepsy treatment. Cell Reports Physical Science. doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.102158.