[Participation of the lacrimal glands in wound healing processes]

A hypothesis is advanced that nociceptive stimulation activates the functional system of wound healing. Experiments were made to investigate whether the lacrimal glands, which are activated due to pain, are involved in the system of healing. Rat experiments have demonstrated that nociceptive stimulation of the lacrimal glands accelerates the repair of cutaneous wounds by 26 to 30%. Lacrimectomy accompanied by distension of wound rims (up to 26% by the 3d-4th hour) inhibits the rate of healing by 18 to 20%. Intraperitoneal injection of a lacrimal gland extract activates healing in lacrimectomized rats. The data obtained suggest that the lacrimal glands are involved in wound healing.