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[Testosterone reduces the expression of keratinization-promoting genes in murine Meibomian glands]
F Schirra1, Z Gatzioufas, J Scheidt
1Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes UKS, Kirrberger Str. 1, Geb. 22, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. frank.schirra@uks.eu
Background:
Extensive keratinization appears to play a major role in the dysfunction of the Meibomian gland. This article presents the potential impact of androgens on limiting keratinization in this tissue, thus, contributing to normal Meibomian gland function and a healthy ocular surface.
Materials And Methods:
Orchidectomized mice were systemically treated with either testosterone or placebo for 2 weeks. The mRNA was then extracted from the Meibomian glands and differential gene expression was investigated by microarray hybridization and evaluation with GeneSifter software as well as gene ontology information from the Gene Ontology (GO) Consortium.
Results:
By z-score calculations, keratinization was the most significantly gene ontology term influenced by testosterone based on down-regulated genes in the mouse Meibomian gland. In particular, under the influence of testosterone the genes coding for small proline-rich protein (Sprr) 2a, Sprr 2b, Sprr 3, keratins 6a and 17 and periplakin were significantly down-regulated, while Sprr 1a and Sprr 2f were significantly up-regulated.
Conclusions:
Testosterone down-regulates the expression of genes promoting keratinization in the Meibomian gland. This may help to prevent Meibomian gland dysfunction by limiting excessive keratinization of this tissue and the adjacent lid margins. The findings elucidate, at least in part, the beneficial impact of androgens on Meibomian gland function and thus on th e health of the ocular surface.
Insights
Testosterone limits keratinization in Meibomian glands by down-regulating specific genes. This action may prevent Meibomian gland dysfunction and support ocular surface health.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
Context:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is often linked to excessive keratinization.
- Androgens, like testosterone, may play a role in regulating Meibomian gland function.
Purpose:
- To investigate the impact of testosterone on gene expression related to keratinization in mouse Meibomian glands.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which androgens influence Meibomian gland health.
Summary:
- Testosterone treatment in orchidectomized mice significantly down-regulated genes associated with keratinization, including Sprr and keratin genes.
- Differential gene expression analysis revealed testosterone's influence on keratinization pathways in the Meibomian gland.
Impact:
- Testosterone's suppression of keratinization-promoting genes may prevent MGD.
- Findings suggest androgens contribute to maintaining Meibomian gland function and ocular surface health.
