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Published on: June 11, 2019
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Motilin Receptor Expression Found in the Human Main and Accessory Lacrimal Glands
Richard R Sadig1, Alexandra Allende2, Geoffrey Hall2
1Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Ocular Immunology and Inflammation
|May 11, 2021
Summary
Motilin receptors (MR) are present in the human lacrimal and accessory lacrimal glands. This finding suggests motilin may influence tear secretion, though its precise role requires further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Motilin is a gastrointestinal peptide hormone.
- Motilin receptors (MR) mediate the effects of motilin.
- The distribution of motilin receptors in ocular adnexal tissues is largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of motilin receptors (MR) in human adnexal tissues.
- Specifically, to examine MR expression in the main lacrimal gland and other adnexal structures.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis using a rabbit polyclonal human MR antibody.
- Human adnexal specimens including lacrimal glands, eyelid excisions, and exenterations were utilized.
- Specimens were analyzed for the presence and localization of MR expression.
Main Results:
- Motilin receptors (MR) were detected in all main lacrimal gland specimens (100%).
- MR expression showed a predominant punctate distribution in the lacrimal glands.
- MR were absent in eccrine glands, sebaceous glands, glands of Zeis, and glands of Moll.
- MR expression was also confirmed in accessory lacrimal gland tissue.
Conclusions:
- Motilin receptors (MR) are present in the human lacrimal and accessory lacrimal glands.
- The exact function of MR in the lacrimal gland is yet to be determined.
- Motilin may potentially play a role in the regulation of aqueous tear secretion via muscarinic pathways.
