Molecular detection of lacrimal apparatus and ocular surface - related ABC transporter genes.

The ocular system is in constant interaction with the environment and with numerous pathogens. The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters represent one of the largest groups among the transmembrane proteins. Their relevance has been demonstrated for their defense function against biotic and abiotic stress factors, for metabolic processes in tumors and for their importance in the development of resistance to drugs.