What's new in dry eye research today? | Oct 6, 2026

【Title】 The chemical oxidation of albumin affects its capability to bind amyloid beta 1-40 peptide and to inhibit its aggregation

【Journal】 Int J Biol Macromol

【Authors】 Maria Luisa Perina; Damiano Calcagno; Diego Sbardella; Davide Deodato; Alessia Distefano; Nunzio Tuccitto; Valentina Oliveri; Florence Schlotter; Peter Faller; Giuseppe Grasso

【Summary】 This study investigated how chemical oxidation affects human serum albumin (HSA) interactions with amyloid-beta 1-40 (Aβ1-40) and its ability to inhibit peptide aggregation. HSA was oxidized using chloramine T or metal-catalyzed oxidation with hydrogen peroxide. Multiple experimental techniques were used to assess protein conformation, oligomeric state, Aβ1-40 binding, and fibrillation. Both oxidation methods reduced HSA's binding capability, while the effects on Aβ1-40 fibrillation differed between the oxidized forms. These findings suggest that oxidative modifications may impair albumin's protective interactions with amyloid-beta, potentially contributing to neurodegenerative processes in the brain and retina, including age-related macular degeneration. Further research is needed to establish clinical implications.

【Title】 Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture Combined with Hydroxychloroquine in Treating Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

【Journal】 Chin J Integr Med

【Authors】 Jian-Bin Li; Hang Lu; Yi-Hua Fan; et al.

【Summary】 This randomized controlled trial evaluated acupuncture combined with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in 138 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS). Participants received HCQ plus either real or sham acupuncture. After treatment, both groups showed improvements in disease activity, dryness symptoms, salivary flow, Schirmer test results, and tear film break-up time. Compared with the control group, the acupuncture group had significantly better scores for overall symptom burden and eye and mouth dryness, along with improved tear and salivary function and reduced anxiety scores. Adverse event incidence did not differ significantly between groups. The findings suggest potential benefits of adjunctive acupuncture, although longer-term studies are needed.