Tear fluid derived extracellular vesicles for new biomarker discovery

Abstract

Various cell types release extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing proteins, DNA, and RNA essential for intercellular communication. The bioactive molecules from EVs can reflect disease status and monitor progression, while their communication abilities suggest therapeutic potential. We will review various EV isolation methods, EV-enriched fluids, and studies analyzing differential mi-RNA and protein levels extracted from EVs. Specifically, tear-derived EVs, which protect their molecular content and allow for real-time monitoring of ocular conditions such as Dry Eye Disease (DED), Sjögren's disease (SJD), Ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD), and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), which all currently remain undiagnosed in patients. EVs also provide potential as carriers for gene transfer, and mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)-derived EVs are shown to be immunomodulatory, demonstrating promise for autoimmune ocular diseases. Through the multi-omic analysis of tear-fluid content, EVs are promising biomarkers and therapeutic agents in ocular diseases.