The OSM and Tear Proteome in Glaucoma Patients
The study aimed to investigate the characteristic features of the ocular surface microbiome (OSM) and tear proteins in patients with glaucoma, considering potential associations with the disease. Whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing of conjunctival swabs and the proteome from the tears that were collected by Schirmer I from 16 glaucoma patients and 16 healthy controls revealed differences in microbial composition and tear proteome between the groups.  The analysis identified 639 taxa in the OSM, predominantly Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria. Corynebacterium mastitidis was exclusively found in healthy controls, suggesting its potential role in ocular health. Functional analysis revealed enrichment of genes related to the phospholipase pathway in healthy controls' microbiomes. Tear proteome analysis showed differential expression of immune-related proteins in glaucoma patients compared to controls.  These findings suggest a potential link between the OSM, tear proteome, and immunological processes in glaucoma pathogenesis. Further research could lead to the development of microbiome-altering therapeutic approaches for glaucoma management. Moreover, investigating the impact of IOP-lowering eye drops on the OSM may provide insights into their influence on ocular health.  Overall, the study sheds light on the intricate interactions between microbial communities, tear proteome, and glaucoma, offering opportunities for personalized therapeutic strategies and advancing our understanding of ocular health.