Dry Eye Dx and Tx: Malfunctioning Mucins

Exploring the underappreciated role of mucins in dry eye disease reveals promising therapeutic avenues for improved management.

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The mucin component of the tear film is crucial for ocular surface health but lacks sufficient pharmaceutical options.
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Damage to conjunctival goblet cells can lead to altered mucus structure and contribute to dry eye disease.
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Mucin deficiency can be addressed with secretagogues, though current topical options are unavailable in the U.S.
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Compounded N-acetylcysteine shows promise for treating excessive poor-quality mucins in ocular surface disease.
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Advancements in understanding mucins may lead to new therapeutic options for improving mucin quality and quantity.

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