Pathohistological features of the aging human lacrimal gland

Abstract

AimTo assess sex-related differences in the pathohistological features of the human lacrimal gland and to investigate age-related and sex-related differences in stereologically measured volume density of the secretory tissue, connective tissue, and fat. MethodsWe performed an observational analysis of acinar atrophy, periacinar fibrosis, periductal fibrosis, ductal dilation, ductal proliferation, fatty infiltration, and lymphocyte infiltration of hematoxylin and eosin-stained lacrimal gland samples from 81 cornea donors. Stereological analysis of the volume density of the secretory tissue, connective tissue, and fat was performed on samples from 66 donors. ResultsUp to 69% of all samples showed degenerative changes. Female samples had a higher frequency of all observed degenerative changes, except ductal dilation. While acinar atrophy was significantly more prevalent in women, ductal dilation was significantly more prevalent in men. Stereological analysis indicated lower portions of acini and higher portions of connective tissue and fat, as well as a more pronounced age-related progression of degenerative changes in female samples. ConclusionFemale lacrimal glands are more susceptible to degeneration, and this susceptibility could play an important role in the higher incidence of dry eye disease in older women. A further stereological analysis using more samples from younger age groups is needed to elucidate age-related and sex-related differences in the structure of the human lacrimal gland and their impact on dry eye disease.

The shared mechanism and potential diagnostic markers for premature ovarian failure and dry eye disease

“…Several studies have found that CDC family genes are associated with apoptosis 17 , which induces cellular senescence owing to its apoptotic mechanism, with the induction of cell senescence possibly resulting in numerous ocular surface disorders, including DED 18 . Simultaneously, cellular senescence, as one of the key causes of DED, is associated with alterations in the structure and function of the lachrymal gland, such as atrophy and reduced protein secretion 19 , with a higher probability of lacrimal gland lesions in older females 20 . The MCM gene family is widely found in eukaryotes such as humans, plays a role in regulating cell division, and is a key factor in initiating DNA replication 21 .…”

Potential New Target for Dry Eye Disease—Oxidative Stress

“…Aging is a major risk factor for many eye diseases. As individuals age, they may experience increased susceptibility to DED due to alterations in the ocular surface, leading to a decrease in both tear production and lacrimal gland function [89]. In an aging group of rats, the lacrimal gland shows increased accumulation of lipofuscin-like substances, indicating age-related oxidative damage, while the levels of vitamin E, which has antioxidant capacity, are lower.…”

The Influence of Tear Film Quality on Visual Function

“…Risk factors for DED include female gender, older age, pregnancy, postmenopausal estrogen therapy, thyroid disease, digital device usage, and contact lens wear. Other factors include refractive surgery, vitamin A deficiency, certain medications, and autoimmune and systemic diseases [ 3 , 4 , 7 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 ]. The significance of DED is expected to rise in the future due to factors such as an aging population, environmental influences, and increased usage of digital devices [ 10 , 15 ].…”