Left-Right Determination Factor 2 (LEFTY2) Is an Aqueous Humor Biomarker for Exfoliation Glaucoma.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) involves exfoliation material (XFM) deposition in the anterior eye segment.
• XFM deposition is linked to the development of exfoliation glaucoma (XFG).
• Novel biomarkers are needed for early XFG detection and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate left-right determination factor 2 (LEFTY2) as a potential biomarker for XFS and XFG.
• To assess the correlation between LEFTY2 levels and disease severity in XFG.

Main Methods:

• Aqueous humor and blood samples were collected from patients with cataracts (CAT), cataracts and primary open-angle glaucoma (CAT/GL), XFS, and XFG.
• LEFTY2 concentrations were measured using ELISA.
• LEFTY2 expression in human trabecular meshwork cells was analyzed after TGFβ treatment.

Main Results:

• Aqueous humor LEFTY2 concentrations were significantly higher in XFG patients compared to controls.
• Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis confirmed LEFTY2 as a potential biomarker for XFG.
• Higher LEFTY2 levels in aqueous humor correlated with increased XFM deposition.

Conclusions:

• LEFTY2 is a promising aqueous humor biomarker for XFG.
• Further research is needed to address clinical utility limitations and elucidate LEFTY2's role in XFG pathogenesis.