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Immunohistochemical localization of human tear lysozyme
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|February 1, 1981
Summary
Human tear lysozyme may be produced locally within the lacrimal glands. Researchers found lysozyme in acinar and ductular cells, suggesting local synthesis rather than plasma concentration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Lysozyme is a key enzyme in innate immunity, present in various bodily secretions including tears.
- The precise origin of lysozyme in human tears has been a subject of investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential local sources of human tear lysozyme within the lacrimal gland.
- To determine if lacrimal tissues synthesize or merely concentrate lysozyme.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence technique was employed.
- Examination of main and accessory lacrimal glands, conjunctiva, and other ocular tissues.
Main Results:
- Lysozyme was identified in 20% to 50% of acinar and ductular epithelial cells of both main and accessory lacrimal glands.
- Staining was granular, localized to cell apices, and tended to be grouped in positive cells.
- Interstitial tissues and other examined ocular tissues did not show lysozyme-specific staining.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the local synthesis of lysozyme by acinar epithelial cells in lacrimal tissues.
- The absence of staining in interstitial elements suggests lysozyme is not concentrated from plasma in these areas.