The role of biofilm formation in the growth and resistance of microbes in contact lens wearers

Contact lens wear is a risk factor for the development of microbial keratitis (infection of the cornea). This usually arises from poor hygiene practices relating to the safe care of the contact lens and storage case. A range of bacteria, fungi and the free-living amoeba Acanthamoeba can all cause contact lens related keratitis. Other non-pathogenic bacteria can colonise the contact lens storage case, adhere to the lens and release toxins that result in inflammatory reactions. The bacteria can also serve as a food source for Acanthamoeba. Such bacteria can also produce biofilm that may protect themselves and pathogenic species from disinfectant systems used in contact lens care. The project will involve developing in vitro models to study bacterial biofilm and endotoxin production on a range of contact lens and storage case materials. The role of biofilm in the growth and survival of Acanthamoeba will also be investigated. The efficacy of contact lens disinfection systems against planktonic and biofilm associated microbes will be compared and used in the development of antimicrobial polymers that may provide for a safer contact lens storage case

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