As practitioners, we should recognize the role contact lens solutions play in the overall success, satisfaction and ocular health of our contact lens patients.
A new and innovative multi-purpose solution (MPS) (Biotrue) from Bausch + Lomb can benefit soft contact lens-wearing patients. What separates this MPS from existing solutions is that it has several bio-inspired elements. The formulation was inspired by the eye to match the pH of healthy tears, to hydrate with the same lubricant found in the eye, and to keep certain beneficial proteins active.
What is bio-inspiration?
Bio-inspiration is also different from "biotechnology" or "bioengineering" which are disciplines that involve controlling or manipulating nature to achieve a specific goal.4,5 Rather, bio-inspiration mimics a process by which something is accomplished in nature; it is about using nature as a role model for innovation.
Bio-inspired products are everywhere-from our modes of transportation to clothing to products we depend upon to live, play, work, and communicate. Probably the most easily recognized bio-inspired products are hook and loop fasteners, of which the Velcro brand (Velcro USA Inc.) is the most well known. This product dates back to the 1940s and is based on the burdock seed that sticks to fur and hair through a series of hooks and loops.6