Correlations between bulk and surface properties of meibomian lipids with alteration of wax-to-sterol esters content.

In a recent study (Ewurum et al., 2021), wax (WE) and sterol esters (CE) from human meibum secretions (MGS) were separated and reconstituted with controlled WE/CE ratios (0%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 75% and 100% CE weight fractions). It was found that the alterations in the CE content of WE/CE mixtures modified the hydrocarbon chain conformation and packing of the mixture.

A spectroscopic approach to measuring meibum lipid composition and conformation in donors with Sjӧgren's syndrome.

Patients with Sjӧgren's syndrome (SS) have dry eye associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibum from donors with dry eye due to MGD but without SS (M) presents with lower levels of cholesteryl ester, less straight chains, and more ordered hydrocarbon chains compared with meibum from donors without MGD (Mn). The aim of the current study was to compare the composition and hydrocarbon chain conformation of meibum from donors with Sjögren's syndrome (Mss) to Mn and M.

Hyaluronic acid-lipid binding.

Background: Phospholipid (PL)-hyaluronic acid (HA) interactions are relevant to aging-associated vitreous humor liquefaction, therapies for dry eye disease, skin-care products and synovial joint lubrication. Phosphatidyl choline-HA interactions have been well characterized. However, other major lipids found in tears, vitreous humor and synovial joints have not.

A spectroscopic study of the composition and conformation of cholesteryl and wax esters purified from meibum.

Elucidating wax ester (WE) and cholesteryl ester (CE) compositional, structural and functional relationships is key to our understanding of how these lipids are involved in natural and pathological processes. Little is known about how CE and WE interact with one another. The focus of the present study is to bridge this gap of knowledge.