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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 20, 2026

A Non-invasive Way to Isolate and Phenotype Cells from the Conjunctiva

A Non-invasive Way to Isolate and Phenotype Cells from the Conjunctiva

Published on: July 5, 2017

Myofibroblasts in the normal conjunctival surface.

Ximena Aguilar¹, David Hallberg, Karin Sundelin

¹Department of Ophthalmology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Mölndal, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Acta Ophthalmologica

|September 15, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Myofibroblasts (MFBs) are present on the normal conjunctiva, with levels varying seasonally and by anatomical location. This suggests a role in tissue repair in response to environmental factors.

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Area of Science:

Ocular surface research
Cell biology
Immunohistochemistry

Background:

Myofibroblasts (MFBs) are key cells in wound healing.
Their presence on the healthy conjunctiva is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

To determine the occurrence of MFBs on the normal conjunctival surface.
To investigate anatomical and temporal variations in MFB presence.

Main Methods:

Impression cytology (IC) samples collected from healthy individuals.
Immunohistochemistry used to identify alpha-smooth-muscle actin (alpha-SMA) positive MFBs.
Longitudinal follow-up of volunteers over one year.

Main Results:

MFBs detected in 94% of conjunctival samples.
Significantly higher MFB levels observed from March-May compared to December-February.
Distinct MFB density variations noted across nasal, temporal, superior, and inferior bulbar conjunctiva.

Conclusions:

MFBs are a normal component of the conjunctival surface.
Conjunctival MFB levels exhibit seasonal variations, peaking in spring/summer.
These fluctuations may indicate ongoing tissue repair due to environmental stressors.