Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science
Abstract
PURPOSE: The accessory lacrimal glands are assumed to contribute to the production of tear fluid, but little is known about their function. The goal of this study was to conduct an analysis of gene expression by glands of Wolfring that would provide a more complete picture of the function of these glands. METHODS: Glands of Wolfring were isolated from frozen sections of human eyelids by laser microdissection. RNA was extracted from the cells and hybridized to gene expression arrays. The expression of several of the major genes was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Of the 24 most highly expressed genes, 9 were of direct relevance to lacrimal function. These included lysozyme, lactoferrin, tear lipocalin, and lacritin. The glands of Wolfring are enriched in genes related to protein synthesis, targeting, and secretion, and a large number of genes for proteins with antimicrobial activity were detected. Ion channels and transporters, carbonic anhydrase, and aquaporins were abundantly expressed. Genes for control of lacrimal function, including cholinergic, adrenergic, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, purinergic, androgen, and prolactin receptors were also expressed in gland of Wolfring. CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest that the function of glands of Wolfring is similar to that of main lacrimal glands and are consistent with secretion electrolytes, fluid, and protein under nervous and hormonal control. Since these glands secrete directly onto the ocular surface, their location may allow rapid response to exogenous stimuli and makes them readily accessible to topical drugs. © 2012 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.
First Page
6738
Last Page
6747
DOI
10.1167/iovs.12-10750
Publication Date
10-1-2012
Recommended Citation
Ubels, John L.; Gipson, Ilene K.; Spurr-Michaud, Sandra J.; and Tisdale, Ann S., "Gene expression in human accessory lacrimal glands of Wolfring" (2012). University Faculty Publications and Creative Works. 349.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/calvin_facultypubs/349