Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2025
06:38
Induction of Ocular Surface Inflammation and Collection of Involved Tissues
Published on: August 4, 2022
2.3K
Urban Particulate Matter Triggers Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Mengqian Tu1, Ren Liu1, Jianwen Xue1
1State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|February 5, 2024
Summary
Urban particulate matter (UPM) causes meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) by inducing cell death and inflammation. This study shows UPM directly damages these glands, leading to MGD symptoms and activating specific inflammatory pathways.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The meibomian gland (MG) is crucial for ocular surface health.
- Epidemiological studies suggest urban particulate matter (UPM) may harm MGs, but mechanisms are unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the direct effects of UPM on MG structure and function in a rodent model.
- To elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying UPM-induced meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Main Methods:
- Rodents received topical UPM or control for 14 days.
- Evaluated MG progenitor cells, apoptosis, lipid accumulation, and inflammation markers.
- Analyzed gene expression and signaling pathways (MAPK, NF-κB) via Western blot.
Main Results:
- UPM exposure caused MGD signs, including corneal erosion and MG dropout.
- UPM induced MG progenitor loss, apoptosis, and lipogenic dysfunction.
- UPM activated pyroptosis and inflammatory signaling pathways (NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β/18, MAPK, NF-κB).
Conclusions:
- UPM exhibits direct toxicity to the meibomian glands.
- UPM-induced pyroptosis and MAPK/NF-κB activation contribute to inflammatory MGD.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
2.8K
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) pathophysiology is intricate and multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for effectively managing and treating COPD. Here is an in-depth look at the critical elements in the pathophysiology of COPD:
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Inflammation
2.8K
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
2.6K
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
2.6K
01:27Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
452
In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
452
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
2.7K
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
2.7K
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
403
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
403