Effect of Smartphone Light Fluxes on Cornea: A Biophysical Study

OBJECTIVE: Biophysical study to investigate (a) the effects of smartphone light fluxes (SPLF) on isolated mammalian cornea and model protein (insulin), (b) to predict the possible visual interference of SPLF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh goat cornea and insulin protein were used as an experimental model system. The energy of absorbed SPLF was measured using chemical dosimeter. The effect of SPLF on the aggregation of model protein was studied using fluorescence spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Fluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), DLS, were used for cornea imaging. RESULTS: The spectral emission peak of SPLF was observed at 380 nm and 420 nm. Absorbed radiation of SPLF was found to be 2.82 mWm(-2) and 1.92 mWm(-2) for collimated (focussed) and noncollimated (nonfocussed) condition, respectively. Secondary structural changes of insulin were observed by fluorescence and zeta potential after SPLF exposure. SEM study revealed the disorganization of the epithelial cell surface, increase in intercellular space, disorganization of primary epithelium layer, and exposure of the second layer is seen in depth. Differential Interference Microscopy showed an optical gradient in images that appears to be changed in specimen structure. Fluorescence microscopy showed disorganization in epithelial cell pattern. A significant difference in bio-molecular permeation was observed in the exposed cornea. Ultraviolet UV-visible spectroscopy study indicated a reduction in light transmission through the cornea. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results indicate changes in physicochemical and morphological modifications in the cornea and insulin modifications after exposed to SPLF.