Biological functions of tear film.
Exp Eye Res
; 197: 108115, 2020 08.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-32561483
ABSTRACT
Tears have a vital function to protect and lubricate the ocular surface. Tear production, distribution and clearance is tightly regulated by the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) to meet ocular surface demands. The tear film consists of an aqueous-mucin layer, containing fluid and soluble factors produced by the lacrimal glands and mucin secreted by the goblet cells, that is covered by a lipid layer. The array of proteins, glycoproteins and lipids in tears function to maintain a stable, well-lubricated and smooth optical surface. Tear factors also promote wound healing, suppress inflammation, scavenge free radicals, and defend against microbial infection. Disease and dysfunction of the LFU leads to tear instability, increased evaporation, inflammation, and blurred and fluctuating vision. The function of tear components and the consequences of tear deficiency on the ocular surface are reviewed.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Lágrimas
/
Glicoproteínas
/
Síndromes do Olho Seco
/
Aparelho Lacrimal
/
Mucinas
Limite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2020
Tipo de documento:
Article