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A research team from the School of Medicine at Walailak University has developed an innovative Demodex staining gel designed to enhance the accuracy and convenience of diagnosing blepharitis. The gel utilizes Chicago Sky Blue dye as a key component and has recently been granted a petty patent by Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property. The team is now seeking industry partners to further develop the innovation for commercial use.

The research was led by Associate Professor Dr. Auemphon Mordmuang, together with Assistant Professor Dr. Weeratian Tawanwongsri and Assistant Professor Dr. Lunla Udomwech. Their study on a Demodex staining gel formulation containing Chicago Sky Blue dye was officially granted petty patent No. 27311 on February 4, 2026. The innovation aims to address key limitations in ophthalmic diagnostics.

Demodex infestation is a major cause of blepharitis, a common eye condition characterized by itching, irritation, burning sensations, and a persistent feeling of a foreign body in the eye. However, due to the microscopic size of the mites and their location at the base of the eyelashes, they are difficult to detect using conventional microscopy. Traditional staining methods often fail to clearly visualize the mites, resulting in delays in diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

To overcome these challenges, the research team developed a novel staining gel using Chicago Sky Blue dye, which has a strong affinity for Demodex mites. This allows for significantly clearer visualization under a microscope. The gel formulation is specifically designed for laboratory use, making it easier for ophthalmologists and technicians to perform accurate examinations.

The researchers noted that that this new staining gel enables the detection of a significantly higher number of Demodex mites compared to conventional microscopy alone. This represents an important step forward in improving diagnostic standards for blepharitis in Thailand, ultimately helping patients receive more targeted treatment and achieve a better quality of life.

The granting of this petty patent marks not only academic achievement but also reflects Walailak University’s vision to develop practical medical innovations that benefit the national healthcare system. The university actively supports the commercialization of research and welcomes entrepreneurs and industry partners interested in technology transfer for large-scale production and distribution.

For further information on technology transfer, interested organizations may contact Mr. Sukimplee Nijibulat at the Intellectual Property and Innovation Management Unit, Walailak University, Tel: 0 7567 3579, Email: sukimplee.ni@wu.ac.th