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Updated: Aug 3, 2025
05:21
Establishment of A Mouse Model of Aqueous Deficiency Dry Eye
Published on: November 1, 2024
679
Ion channels in dry eye disease.
Nikhil Ashok1, Pooja Khamar2, Sharon D'Souza2
1GROW Research Laboratory, Narayana Nethralaya Foundation, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|April 7, 2023
Summary
Ionic imbalances contribute to dry eye disease (DED) pathogenesis. Targeting specific ion channels may offer new therapeutic strategies for managing DED symptoms and improving ocular surface health.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Dry eye disease (DED) affects millions globally, causing pain and visual disturbances.
- Key DED factors include altered tear film, hyperosmolarity, inflammation, and neurosensory issues.
- Discordant signs/symptoms and therapy resistance highlight the need for new DED targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of electrolytes and ion channels in dry eye disease (DED).
- To explore how ionic imbalances contribute to ocular surface inflammation and DED pathogenesis.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets by examining ion channel expression and activity in DED.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of electrolyte and ion channel involvement in ocular surface homeostasis.
- Investigation of ion channel expression and activity in DED models (animal/human).
- Examination of specific ion channels implicated in DED pathogenesis and resolution.
Main Results:
- Ionic imbalances and osmotic stress are observed in DED, interacting with inflammation.
- Alterations in approximately 33 types of ion channels are linked to ocular surface health and DED.
- Increased TRPA1, TRPV1, Nav1.8, KCNJ6, ASIC1, ASIC3, P2X, P2Y, and NMDA receptor activity implicated in DED.
- Increased TRPM8, GABAA receptor, CFTR, and NKA activity associated with DED resolution.
Conclusions:
- Ionic and osmotic imbalances are critical contributors to DED.
- Specific ion channels play dual roles in DED pathogenesis and resolution.
- Modulating ion channel activity presents a promising avenue for novel DED therapies.
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