[The role of meibum proteins in the pathogenesis of meibomian gland dysfunction].

Abstract

Proteins and lipids in the meibum help maintain the balanced chemical composition of the tear film. However, the secretion of the meibomian glands contains various protein fractions, the function and effects of which on the lipid profile remain incompletely understood. This literature review provides a description of the main proteins of the meibum and their roles in the pathogenesis of meibomian gland dysfunction associated with age-related changes and metabolic disorders that lead to impaired tear film functionality. The article also analyzes modern methods for studying meibomian gland secretion.