Distinct Inflammatory and Oxidative Effects of Diabetes Mellitus and Hypothyroidism in the Lacrimal Functional Unit

Author(s)

Faustino-Barros, Jacqueline Ferreira ; Sant'Ana, Ariane Mirela Saranzo ; Dias, Lara Cristina ; Murashima, Adriana de Andrade Batista ; da Silva, Lilian Eslaine Costa Mendes ; Fantucci, Marina Zilio ; Garcia, Denny Marcos ; Rocha, Eduardo Melani

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES; v. 24, n. 8, p. 11-pg., 2023-04-01.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypothyroidism (HT) are prevalent diseases associated with dry eye (DE). Their impact on the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) is poorly known. This work evaluates the changes in the LFU in DM and HT. Adult male Wistar rats had the disease induced as follows: (a) DM: streptozotocin and (b) HT: methimazole. The tear film (TF) and blood osmolarity were measured. Cytokine mRNA was compared in the lacrimal gland (LG), trigeminal ganglion (TG), and cornea (CO). Oxidative enzymes were evaluated in the LG. The DM group showed lower tear secretion (p = 0.02) and higher blood osmolarity (p < 0.001). The DM group presented lower mRNA expression of TRPV1 in the cornea (p = 0.03), higher Il1b mRNA expression (p = 0.03), and higher catalase activity in the LG (p < 0.001). The DM group presented higher Il6 mRNA expression in the TG (p = 0.02). The HT group showed higher TF osmolarity (p < 0.001), lower expression of Mmp9 mRNA in the CO (p < 0.001), higher catalase activity in the LG (p = 0.002), and higher expression of Il1b mRNA in the TG (p = 0.004). The findings revealed that DM and HT induce distinct compromises to the LG and the entire LFU. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/23211-0 - The natural history of lacrimal and salivary gland dysfunction in Sjögren's syndrome
• Grantee: Eduardo Melani Rocha
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 14/22451-7 - Sustained drug delivery systems targeting the epithelial tissue
• Grantee: Renata Fonseca Vianna Lopez
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants