Role of the spectral composition of everyday lighting in inducing ametropia

Subject of the study. This study investigates the role of the visible spectrum of everyday lighting in causing myopia in adolescents. Aim of the study . The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of narrow spectral compositions of everyday light on eye growth. Induced changes in the morphology and mechanical properties of the sclera are identified using a rapidly developing biological model. Moreover, the possibility of preventing the development of myopia in children and adolescents is determined based on experimental data. Methods. This study was conducted using Japanese quails. LEDs with narrow spectral ranges [blue (450±25nm), red (630±25nm), and yellow (560±50nm)] were used as light sources. The sizes and morphological features of the structural elements of the eye along the optical axis were studied in the native state using high-resolution acoustic methods and in vitro using light and electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of the sclera were studied using a tensile testing machine. Main results. The main results were obtained at a physiological level of illumination from birth to fertile age (45–65 days). Narrow-spectrum-induced changes in the anteroposterior axis length, especially in lens thickness, morphology, and mechanical properties of the sclera, were revealed in laboratory animals (Japanese quails) as they matured. Experimental data confirmed the formation of ametropia in the eyes when the spectrum of daily lighting shifted toward blue or red light. Practical significance. The results of the study draw attention to the spectral characteristics of everyday lighting sources, including display devices, which significantly affect the formation of ametropia in children and adolescents. Recommendations for ametropia prevention are also provided.