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Comparing Analyte Concentrations in Paired Tear Fluid and Blood Samples
Yutong Wang1, Li Liang1, Rudy M M A Nuijts1
1University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Mental Health and Neuroscience Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Current Eye Research
|November 12, 2025
Summary
Tear fluid analysis can monitor systemic conditions, as analyte concentrations correlate with blood levels. Cytokines and neuromodulators are higher in tears, while antibodies and drugs are higher in blood.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Biomarker Discovery
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Tear fluid analysis offers a non-invasive method for monitoring physiological and pathological conditions.
- Understanding the relationship between tear fluid and blood analyte concentrations is crucial for validating tear fluid as a diagnostic medium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare analyte concentrations in paired tear fluid and blood samples.
- To evaluate the correlations between analyte concentrations in tear fluid and blood.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published between 1974 and 2025.
- Data extraction and pooling of concentration data using random-effects models.
- Bayesian posterior simulation methods to compare concentrations and calculate ratios.
Main Results:
- 367 paired samples and 138 analytes were analyzed.
- Cytokines and neuromodulators were generally higher in tear fluid, while antibodies and drugs were higher in blood.
- Strong positive correlations (r > 0.8) were observed for 32% of analytes, supporting tear fluid's potential.
Conclusions:
- Analyte concentrations in tear fluid and blood vary by functional category.
- Tear fluid analysis is a promising non-invasive approach for monitoring systemic health.
- The strong correlations support tear fluid's utility in assessing systemic physiological and pathological states.
