RNA-Seq and CyTOF immuno-profiling of regenerating lacrimal glands identifies a novel subset of cells expressing muscle-related proteins.

The purpose of the present studies was to use CyTOF and RNA-Seq technologies to identify cells and genes involved in lacrimal gland repair that could be targeted to treat diseases of lacrimal gland dysfunction. Lacrimal glands of female BALB/c mice were experimentally injured by intra-glandular injection of interleukin 1 alpha (IL-1α). The lacrimal glands were harvested at various time points following injury (1 to 14 days) and used to either prepare single cell suspensions for CyTOF immuno-phenotyping analyses or to extract RNA for gene expression studies using RNA-Seq.

Delivery of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improves Tear Production in a Mouse Model of Sjögren's Syndrome.

The purpose of the present study was to test the potential of mouse bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BD-MSCs) in improving tear production in a mouse model of Sjögren's syndrome dry eye and to investigate the underlying mechanisms involved. NOD mice ( = 20) were randomized to receive i.p.

Human postmortem lacrimal and submandibular glands stored in RNA are suitable for molecular, biochemical, and cell biological studies.

Purpose: Gene expression and protein analysis studies require high-quality human tissue which is a challenge and difficult to obtain through live human biopsies. Human postmortem lacrimal gland (LG) and submandibular gland (SMG) tissues have the potential to provide an invaluable source for studying the mechanisms involved in LG and SMG dysfunction. Therefore, we aimed to test the suitability of post-mortem LG and SMG for molecular, biochemical, and cell biological studies.

Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in Lacrimal Gland Disease in Animal Models of Sjögren's Syndrome.

Purpose: Chronic inflammation of the lacrimal gland results in changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is believed to compromise tissue repair. We hypothesized that increased production/activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially MMP-2 and -9, in inflamed lacrimal glands modifies the ECM environment, therefore disrupting tissue repair.

Methods: The lacrimal glands from female MRL/lpr and male NOD mice along with their respective control strains were harvested and divided into three pieces and processed for histology, immunohistochemistry, zymography, Western blotting, and RNA analyses.

Comprehensive analysis of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria found on dental bib clips.

Multiple-use dental bib clips are considered to present relatively low risks for transmitting infections and, thus, are thought to only require disinfection between patient visits. This study was designed to: 1) determine the presence and composition of bacterial contaminants on reusable rubber-faced metal bib clips after dental treatment at the hygiene clinic at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and 2) evaluate the effectiveness of the disinfection for this clip type. Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial contaminant loads on the surfaces of the clips were investigated immediately after hygiene treatments were rendered and again after clips were disinfected.