Comparative study of the lipid profile of tears and plasma enriched in growth factors.

The Tear Film Lipid Layer (TFLL) acts primarily as an interface between the aqueous layer and air. Tear film lipid is composed of a thin layer of polar lipids that interact with the secretory layer of the underlying mucosa and a thicker layer of non-polar lipids at the air interface. The tear film has a complex structure and composition that protects the cornea, promotes wound healing, and maintains high-quality vision.

Hyaluronic Acid Combined with Serum Rich in Growth Factors in Corneal Epithelial Defects.

The aim of this study is to assess if an adhesive biopolymer, sodium hyaluronate (NaHA), has synergistic effects with s-PRGF (a serum derived from plasma rich in growth factors and a blood derivative that has already shown efficacy in corneal epithelial wound healing), to reduce time of healing or posology. In vitro proliferation and migration studies, both in human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells and in rabbit primary corneal epithelial (RPCE) cultures, were carried out. In addition, we performed studies of corneal wound healing in vivo in rabbits treated with s-PRGF, NaHA, or the combination of both.

Changes in tear biomarker levels in keratoconus after corneal collagen crosslinking.

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to analyze the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), calcyclin (S100A6), and cystatin S (CST4) in the tears of keratoconus (KC) patients. The correlations between the expressions of these proteins and the values of various ocular surface parameters were examined after accelerated corneal crosslinking (A-CXL) with pulsed ultraviolet light.

Methods: This prospective, observational study enrolled patients with different grades of KC, scheduled to undergo the A-CXL procedure, as well as healthy subjects.