Abstract
Purpose: :
Inflammation of the lacrimal gland plays a significant role in dry eye disease. Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are the progenitors for novel molecules that play a role in the termination of inflammation and the return of tissues to a state of homeostasis. Fish oil is a source of long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Therefore, we investigated dietary fish oil effect on lacrimal gland function in aged mice.
Methods: :
Twelve-month-old male C57BL/6Cr Slc mice were randomly divided into dietary fish oil treatment groups (FO) (n=10) and control groups (CTL) (n=10). After 6 months, tear function was examined under conscious state. After euthanasia, lacrimal glands were subjected to histological examination, and assessment of oxidative stress with 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) antibodies. Real time PCR was also performed for MCP-1 and TNF-alpha.
Results: :
The volume of tear secretion was significantly more in the FO group compared to the CTL group. FO reduced the inflammatory cell infiltration, the concentration of 8-OHdG and the extent of staining with HNE in the lacrimal gland, compared to CTL. In the real time PCR, MCP-1 and TNF-alpha expression were lower in the FO group compared to CTL group.
Conclusions: :
Fish oil might attenuate oxidative stress damage and suppress inflammatory mediators in the lacrimal gland and preserved lacrimal gland functions.
Keywords: cornea: tears/tear film/dry eye • cornea: basic science • lacrimal gland