Tear film and ocular surface cell

The **tear film** is a thin, complex, multi-layered fluid coating the ocular surface, composed of a lipid layer (from meibomian glands), an aqueous-mucin layer (from lacrimal glands and goblet cells), and a glycocalyx (from surface epithelial cells)[1][3][4]. The tear film protects and lubricates the eye, supports clear vision, defends against infection, promotes healing after injury, and maintains comfort by preventing desiccation and reducing mechanical friction[1][2]. **Ocular surface cells** refers primarily to the epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva, which both contribute structurally and by expressing specific membrane-bound mucins[4]. Dysfunction or alteration of the tear film or ocular surface cells, individually or collectively, leads to clinical conditions such as dry eye disease, increased risk of infection, ocular pain, and fluctuations in vision[1][2][3]. There is no single molecular "target" within this system; rather, multiple proteins (e.g., mucins, antimicrobial peptides, growth factors) and processes are involved in tear film stability, production, and ocular health maintenance[1][2][3][4]. **Summary:** "Tear film and ocular surface cells" is an anatomical and functional entity, not a molecular target. It encompasses multiple cell types and secretions, with varied biological functions, and is not suited as an entry for a single druggable target or receptor.

Other names

Tear filmocular surfaceocular surface epitheliumlacrimal functional unit