The Balance of Th17/Treg Cells at The Ocular Surface in Dry Eye Disease

Abstract

The eye is considered immune-privileged along with the brain and the testicles. To preserve their visual function, a state of tolerogenic microenvironment must be sustained by the resident immune cells to prevent aggressive inflammatory reactions. Excessive immune system stimulation or immunoregulatory mechanisms disruption at the ocular surface can result in inflammation, subsequently leading to ocular surface diseases. Dry eye is the most common type of ocular surface disorders which is characterized by unstable tear film and a variety of symptoms that adversely affects the daily activities of the patient. Despite the multifactorial nature of the dry eye, recent studies have shown that immunologic processes have a critical role in the disease's pathogenesis and progression. Herein, we focused on the involvement of Th17 and Tregs in the disease's pathophysiology and their relation to the disease progression.

Keywords

• Th17
• Treg
• Dry Eye
• Hyperosmolarity
• Inflammation.

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