Preservation of Corneal Integrity by the Mucin Secretagogue 15(S)-HETE in a Rabbit Model of Desiccation-Induced Dry Eye

Mucins are high molecular weight hydrophilic glycoproteins that form a gel with aqueous lacrimal secretions spanning approximately 30 µm of the 35–40 µm thick tear film.1 This protective mucinous gel hydrates the cornea and provides a smooth refractive surface. Dry eye conditions are associated with reduced tear film mucin as well as alterations in mucin distribution and composition.2 The ability of a mucin-containing ophthalmic solution to accelerate healing of injured rabbit corneas illustrates the critical role of tear film mucin.3 Mucins are produced by conjunctival goblet cells4 and epithelial cells of the conjunctiva and cornea.5 This suggests the entire ocular surface epithelium is capable of producing mucins. Topical application of an ocular mucin secretagogue could provide therapeutic benefit to the injured cornea in the dry eye condition.