Elucidating the Molecular Interactions between Lipids and Lysozyme: Evaporation Resistance and Bacterial Barriers for Dry Eye Disease

Abstract

Dry eye disease (DED) is a chronic condition characterized by ocular dryness and inflammation. The tear film lipid layer (TFLL) is the outermost layer composed of lipids and proteins that protect the ocular surface. However, environmental contaminants can disrupt its structure, potentially leading to DED. Although the importance of tear proteins in the TFLL functionality has been clinically recognized, the molecular mechanisms underlying TFLL–protein interactions remain unclear. In this study, we investigated tear protein–lipid interactions and analyzed their role in the TFLL functionality. The results show that lysozyme (LYZ) increases the stability of the TFLL by reducing its surface tension and increasing its surface pressure, resulting in increased TFLL evaporation and bacterial invasion resistance, with improved wettability and lubrication performance. These findings highlight the critical role of LYZ in maintaining ocular health and provide potential avenues for investigating novel approaches to DED treatment and patient well-being.