NGF and iNOS Changes in Tears from Video Display Terminal Workers

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biochemistry
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Video Display Terminal (VDT) use is associated with increased prevalence of ocular discomfort and dry eye disease.
• Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) plays a crucial role in ocular surface health and neuroprotection.
• Nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is implicated in inflammatory processes within the eye.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) levels in the tears of VDT workers.
• To correlate NGF and iNOS expression with ocular signs and symptoms experienced by VDT users.
• To investigate the relationship between these biomarkers and the severity of VDT-related ocular discomfort.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 120 VDT workers and 40 non-VDT controls were enrolled.
• Participants completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and underwent clinical ocular surface assessments.
• Tear samples were analyzed for NGF and iNOS levels, with results correlated against OSDI scores and clinical findings.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in NGF levels was observed with increasing OSDI grading (mild to moderate).
• iNOS expression was elevated in individuals with moderate OSDI scores compared to controls.
• NGF showed a negative correlation with OSDI scores, dryness, and blurry vision, but not with tear film parameters.

Conclusions:

• NGF and iNOS levels appear to be involved in the ocular discomfort experienced by VDT workers.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise interplay between NGF, iNOS, and the VDT-induced ocular surface changes.