DR. ANUSHREE BHATKAL

Prof.ROHIT SHETTY, Dr.POOJA KHAMAR

Abstract

Purpose: To study expression of ocular surface Vit D Receptors (VDR) and its association with dry eye disease (DED) and keratoconus (KC).

Methods: Conjunctival impression cytology taken from 11 controls and 15 DED eyes to study osmotic stress. Human corneal epithelial cells (HCE)from ectatic and non-ectatic zones of 30 KC eyes, 10 controls taken for VDR, lysyl oxidase(LOX),MMP9 and collagen expression. Effect of CFTR activator(Genistein), Vit D(Calcitriol) on HCE noted.

Results: Higher expression of TonEBP, GLRX5, lower VDR noted in DED, confirming osmotic stress. Lower VDR, LOX, collagen and higher MMP9 noted in KC epithelium. Ectatic zones of KC had lower VDR and LOX vis-a-vis non-ectatic zones. Vit D treatment improved VDR, LOX and reduced MMP9 in KC, and TonEBP and VDR degradation in DED.

Conclusion: This suggests critical role of VDR in DED and endogenous CXL in KC. VDR activation by vitamin D supplementation can be explored as a novel strategy in DED and KC management.

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