Abstract
Presentation Description :
Commensal microbiota inhabit all body surfaces, including the gut and the ocular surface. In both cases, they have functional consequences on ocular homeostasis and disease. Using animal models, we demonstrated that the endogenous gut microbiome may promote autoimmune uveitis that damages the neuroretina. In contrast, presence of commensals on the ocular surface is beneficial and protects from pathogenic infections. This presentation will contrast the local and systemic effects of commensal flora on ocular immunity and autoimmunity, and will discuss the mechanisms that may underlie these effects.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.