You may have read about the gut microbiome, but did you also know that there are microbiomes in your nose, ears, mouth, skin, and eyes? A microbiome is the collective community of all the microbes (microscopic bacteria, viruses, and fungi) that live and interact in our bodies overall, as well as subsets that live in specific areas of our bodies. Scientists have been exploring the role that the eye microbiome plays in various eye conditions, including dry eye. Learn more about the link between dry eye and the eye microbiome.*

Exploring the eye microbiome

The eye microbiome encompasses the community of bacteria and microorganisms residing on the conjunctiva (the thin, colorless membrane covering the whites of the eyes) and cornea (the dome-shaped covering at the front of the eye). Similar to imbalances in the gut microbiome, dysregulation in the eye microbiome may lead to the spread of disease-causing microbes, impacting ocular health. 

Researchers are particularly interested in its role in various eye diseases such as:

• Glaucoma, 
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD),
• Cataract
• Diabetic retinopathy, and 
• Dry eye. 

Microbial disparities in dry eye

A study conducted by researchers from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas analyzed eye samples from participants both with and without dry eye. Their findings revealed distinct differences in microbial composition between the two groups. 

While healthy eyes predominantly harbored streptococcus and pedobacter bacteria, those with dry eye contained more acinetobacter bacteria. Understanding these disparities holds promise for advancing diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for dry eye and, potentially, other ocular diseases.

Implications and future directions

The implications of this research extend beyond dry eye treatment. By gaining insights into the eye microbiome and its influence on ocular health, researchers aim to develop novel therapeutic approaches. 

Future research projects are anticipated to focus on understanding signaling pathways associated with microbial indicators in dry eye and other ocular conditions, and explore the treatment potential of modifying the eye microbiome itself, with the aim of improved outcomes and better quality of life for patients.

*Pelc, C. (2024, March 26). How dry eye affects the eye’s microbiome. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-dry-eye-affects-eyes-microbiome

Responsum Health closely vets all sources to ensure that we always provide you with high-quality, reliable information. We do not, however, endorse or recommend any specific providers, treatments, or products, and the use of a given source does not imply an endorsement of any provider, treatment, medication, or procedure discussed within.