What's new in dry eye research today? | Oct 13, 2026

【Title】Naringin Alleviates Ocular Surface Inflammation in Dry Eye Disease by Enhancing Autophagic Flux and Mitigating Oxidative Stress Through Downregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway

【Journal】Exp Eye Res

【Authors】Qi Zhang; Boxiao Zhao; Zeying Chen; et al.

【Summary】This study investigated the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of naringin (NAR) in dry eye disease (DED) using a benzalkonium chloride (BAC)-induced mouse model and hyperosmotic-stressed human corneal epithelial cells. NAR eye drops alleviated corneal surface damage, increased tear secretion and conjunctival goblet cell density, and reduced corneal inflammatory factor expression. In vitro experiments showed that NAR attenuated oxidative stress and apoptosis by enhancing autophagic flux. Mechanistically, NAR downregulated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, which was associated with increased autophagic flux and reduced inflammation and oxidative stress. These preclinical findings suggest NAR as a potential DED therapeutic candidate, warranting further investigation.

【Title】Low-level light therapy for dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

【Journal】Acta Ophthalmol

【Authors】Sjur Reppe; Yousif Subhi; Tore Steinkjer; et al.

【Summary】This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated low-level light therapy (LLLT) as a standalone treatment for dry eye disease (DED). Ten clinical studies involving 473 participants were included. Treatment protocols used wavelengths of 625–640 nm and/or 810–850 nm, with sessions lasting at least 10 minutes. Meta-analysis showed significant improvements in OSDI scores (WMD −11.42), non-invasive tear break-up time (NIBUT; WMD +1.49 s), and tear meniscus height (TMH; WMD +0.04 mm). Sensitivity analyses of eligible randomized controlled trials confirmed benefits for OSDI and NIBUT, but not TMH. No adverse events were reported. LLLT may improve DED symptoms and signs, although further evidence is needed to establish its clinical role.