What's new in dry eye research today? | Sep 24, 2026

【Title】Self-Propelled HPB@Lip@AB Nanomotors Ameliorate Dry Eye Disease

【Journal】Advanced Science

【Authors】Jing Li; Xi Wan; Xinru Su; et al.

【Summary】This study developed a self-propelled nanomotor-based eye-drop system, HPB@Lip@AB, designed to overcome ocular surface barriers and simultaneously target mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in dry eye disease. The system consists of a hollow Prussian blue nanozyme core loaded with ammonia borane, which serves as a molecular hydrogen precursor, and a liposomal shell. In the DED microenvironment, hydrogen peroxide decomposition generates oxygen bubbles that propel the nanomotors through the tear film, while intracellular hydrogen production is proposed to enhance antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Treatment improved tear secretion, tear-film stability, and corneal epithelial repair, with effects associated with increased ALDH1L2 expression, improved mitochondrial function, and reduced apoptosis and inflammation.

【Title】Dry eye outcomes after endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy: tear film changes and risk factors for symptom deterioration

【Journal】Jpn J Ophthalmol

【Authors】Muhammad Abumanhal; Mayari Ito; Keiji Sugiura; et al.

【Summary】This prospective observational study evaluated changes in tear film, ocular surface, meibomian gland parameters, and dry eye symptoms in 50 patients with unilateral primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction undergoing successful endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (en-DCR). Three months after surgery, the affected eyes showed significant reductions in tear film break-up time, Schirmer values, and upper and lower tear meniscus height, while meibomian gland function improved. Most patients had unchanged or improved symptoms, but 30.0% experienced symptom deterioration. Lower preoperative upper tear meniscus height tended to be associated with increased risk of postoperative dry eye symptom worsening.