Multifunctional Injectable Hydrogel as a Biomimic Lens: Optical–Mechanical Restoration and Dynamic Postoperative Microenvironment Regulation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Phacoemulsification followed by intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is currently the only effective treatment for cataracts. However, conventional IOLs exhibit limited biological adaptability and fixed or discontinuous focal properties, preventing restoration of the natural lens's continuous accommodation and often causing postoperative visual disturbances and complications. Herein, we report an injectable multifunctional hydrogel‐based biomimic lens that simultaneously reconstructs optical–mechanical properties and dynamically modulates the postoperative lenticular microenvironment. Through multilayered dynamic crosslinking and micro‐capsulorhexis‐assisted in situ gelation within the capsular bag, the hydrogel forms a biomimic lens with continuous refractive characteristics. Meanwhile, its drug‐loading capability enables the incorporation of multifunctional components for early postoperative antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects. In addition, after inflammation subsides, the loaded photocatalytic elements induce the orderly clearance of residual lens epithelial cells, enabling comprehensive restoration of microenvironmental homeostasis within the capsular bag. In a rabbit model, this hydrogel lens demonstrates effective refractive reconstruction and sustained suppression of postoperative complications, highlighting its potential as a next‐generation intraocular lens.