Harnessing the power of tear film lipids

The tear film is an extremely complex structure, containing more than 660 individual proteins, mucins and lipids. Although we often refer to three layers in the tear film – the mucin, aqueous, and lipid layers – these layers are not as discrete as once thought. Many tear film components move through more than one layer, keeping the layers interconnected and interdependent. In a healthy eye, these components work in harmony to help protect and lubricate the cornea and provide a smooth refracting surface; the tear film is essential for both excellent vision and ocular comfort.

Scientific understanding of the tear film has been evolving rapidly in recent years, thanks to better diagnostic and assessment tools, as well as a renewed focus on the causes of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and dry eye. While we still do not fully understand the natural functions of each of the hundreds of unique tear film components, we are confident they all have a purpose.