Dr. KRATI GUPTA

Dr. ROHIT SHETTY, Dr.Pooja Khamar

Abstract

Purpose: To study the expression of ocular surface vitamin D receptor (VDR) & its association with inflammation in dry eye disease (DED)

Methods: DED (n=18) & Controls (n=14) underwent TBUT & OSDI scoring. Conjunctival impression cytology-based qPCR & immunofluorescence was used to study the levels of VDR, hyperosmotic stress indicator (TonEBP) & inflammatory genes (TNFa, MMP9, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, MCP1).

Results: Significantly (P<0.05) lower TBUT & VDR expression; higher OSDI, TonEBP & inflammatory gene expression were found in DED. Hyperosmotic stress lead to VDR degradation, rise in TonEBP & inflammatory genes in HCE cells. Isoflavane & calcitriol reduced the deleterious effects of hyperosmolarity on HCE cells. Conclusion: Restoring VDR on the ocular surface via topical agents can alleviate signs & symptoms of DED. We plan to explore the role of topical Vitamin D & its implication in COVID-19 times.