Liquid crystal glasses shield against light triggers linked to photosensitive epilepsy
A team of researchers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Glasgow has developed a liquid crystal lens prototype intended to protect people with photosensitive epilepsy. Published in Cell Reports Physical Science, the work outlines how wearable optics can reduce exposure to a wavelength band that commonly triggers seizures. The design integrates the lens into a standard frame and relies on small temperature shifts to alter the crystal orientation, creating a selective light filter that activates when needed. In North America, researchers see clear potential for such eyewear to help individuals in Canada and the United States manage exposure to risky light in daily life.
The operation hinges on modest temperature changes. When activated, the lenses can block almost all light in the 660 to 720 nanometer range, a band associated with higher seizure risk for many patients with photosensitive epilepsy. The effect is achieved by finely tuning the liquid crystal orientation within the lens so that only light outside this band passes through while the restricted band is largely suppressed.
The team explains that discreet circuits embedded in the glasses frame power the lenses and enable use in situations where a particular wavelength could trigger an attack, such as while watching television or playing a video game. The same circuitry heats the lenses to a comfortable temperature for the wearer, while the optical state changes help reduce exposure to the triggering light. In testing, the glasses blocked more than 98 percent of light at the targeted wavelength. This high attenuation demonstrates the potential of actively controlled filters in lightweight eyewear as a practical safety tool.
Current performance holds up in room temperatures up to about 26°C. Warmer environments would require additional improvements in heat management and materials. The developers are also working to speed up the transition between lens modes to ensure quick adaptation during dynamic activities and in different lighting setups common in North American homes and entertainment venues.
Historical context shows that researchers have long explored unconventional avenues for epilepsy treatment. Earlier studies examined venom from the blind sea centipede as a possible source for therapeutics, reflecting the broader quest to understand and tame seizure triggers through innovative biology.
Overall, the researchers envision a future where smart eyewear could become a practical option for people in Canada and the United States who are sensitive to light. Real-world adoption would involve safety tests, regulatory review, and extensive testing across varied environments to confirm effectiveness and comfort during daily use. The progress reported in Cell Reports Physical Science highlights a path forward for wearable filters that address a real-world need for photosensitive epilepsy management.