What's new in dry eye research today? | Oct 9, 2026

【Title】Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction (KLEx) Surgeries and Dry Eye: A Narrative Review of Predominantly Small Incision Lenticule Extraction-Based Evidence

【Journal】Curr Eye Res

【Authors】Xiangjun Chen; Catherine Joan Jackson; Kjell Gunnar Gundersen; et al.

【Summary】This narrative review found that dry eye symptoms and tear film stability generally worsen early after keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx), with recovery typically occurring within 3–6 months, while changes in tear production are inconsistent. Compared with LASIK, SMILE may better preserve corneal sensitivity and innervation and support earlier recovery, but differences in dry eye outcomes remain inconsistent, and evidence for newer KLEx platforms and postoperative treatments is limited.

【Title】Advances in Long-Acting Ocular Therapies for Dry Eye Disease: Delivery Systems, Formulations, and Clinical Perspectives

【Journal】Exp Eye Res

【Authors】Zixuan Liu; Yanhua Jiang; Fen Chen; et al.

【Summary】This review summarizes long-acting ocular drug delivery systems and formulations designed to prolong ocular surface residence time, improve drug bioavailability, overcome ocular barriers, and reduce dosing frequency in dry eye disease. Although these approaches may improve treatment convenience and adherence, their clinical value requires further evaluation of safety, efficacy, and translational feasibility.

【Title】A non-penetrating colanic acid eye drops with anti-inflammatory and pro-repair functions for dry eye disease

【Journal】J Mater Chem B

【Authors】Panxianzhi Ni; Dengbinpei Duan; Mengyi Deng; et al.

【Summary】This study developed colanic acid (CA)-based eye drops that demonstrated good biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory activity, suppressing TNF-α and IL-1β while increasing IL-4 and IL-10. In benzalkonium chloride-induced rat and pig models, CA improved tear secretion, corneal integrity, and goblet cell function, with efficacy comparable to or greater than hyaluronic acid; its lack of corneal penetration and potential to promote epithelial repair support further investigation, pending clinical validation.

【Title】A ROS-Responsive and Mucoadhesive Thermosensitive Hydrogel Encapsulated with Mizoribine for Synergistic Dry Eye Therapy

【Journal】Adv Sci (Weinh)

【Authors】Danyi Qin; Jiani Li; Panqin Ma; et al.

【Summary】This study developed a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive, mucoadhesive thermosensitive hydrogel containing mizoribine for sustained ocular drug delivery. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, improved cellular function, alleviation of dry eye signs, and recovery of conjunctival goblet cells, with a favorable biosafety profile; further studies are needed to establish its translational potential.

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