Detection of protein deposits using NIR spectroscopy

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to determine if it is possible to distinguish between the groups of spoiled and unspoiled soft contact lenses using near-infrared spectroscopy and new analytical approach – Aquaphotomics. Using the principal component analysis, it was established that the absorbance spectra of worn and new contact lenses are differed at water absorption band related to hydration of proteins. Detection of proteins thus was performed indirectly by using vibrations of water molecules. This exploratory study showed that near-infrared spectroscopy and Aquaphotomics have potential for non-invasive, chemical-free detection of protein deposits on hydrated soft contact lenses.

KEYWORDS:

• Aquaphotomics
• near-infrared spectroscopy
• proteins
• soft contact lenses
• water

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank MD Nikola Lemaic from FINE ZEISSOPTIC optical store, Belgrade for providing new and in-vivo spoiled contact lenses.

Funding

The authors gratefully acknowledge financial support for this research to Ministry of Science and Education of Republic of Serbia (Project III45009).

Additional information

Funding

The authors gratefully acknowledge financial support for this research to Ministry of Science and Education of Republic of Serbia (Project III45009).