Oxidation induced changes in conjunctival ion transport: Critical role of conjunctival GSH metabolism and transport in ocular surface health

The present discovery relates to the development of a topical ophthalmic formulation using pharmacological doses of glutathione (GSH), and a method of using this composition to alleviate symptoms of ocular surface disorders. Pathology arising due to a decline in proper physiological function of the mammalian conjunctiva, i.e. "pink eye", can be reversed and protected using this specific approach.; GSH is the most prevalent, endogenous anti-oxidant found in nearly all cell types. Using established conjunctival epithelial cell models from pigmented rabbits, we reported net secretion of intact, reduced GSH under physiological conditions towards the mucosal aspect. The conjunctival epithelium covers most of the ocular surface. It functions as a protective barrier and participates in the maintenance of tear film stability partly via identified active ion transport mechanisms. Potential damage emanating from light, heat, chemicals, atmospheric gases, or physical abrasion can be inflicted locally to the conjunctiva due to its immediate proximity to the surrounding environment. The thin tear film covering the conjunctiva serves as the front line of defense against environmental harms. A continuous supply of endogenous GSH by the conjunctival epithelial cells is essential, considering that the tear film is a compartmentalized discrete milieu.