Dissecting lipid metabolism in meibomian glands of humans and mice: An integrative study reveals a network of metabolic reactions not duplicated in other tissues

Physiological Effects of Soat1 Inactivation on Homeostasis of the Mouse Ocular Surface

Purpose

Soat1/SOAT1 have been previously reported to be critical for the biosynthesis of cholesteryl esters (CEs) in the mouse Meibomian glands (MGs) as the loss of function led to an arrest of CE production and a substantial accumulation of nonesterified cholesterol in the meibum, causing an increase in its melting temperature. The purpose of this study was to further investigate the role of Soat1 in meibogenesis and ocular surface physiology.

Methods

The mouse ocular features of knockout Soat1-/- and wild type (WT) mice were studied using various ophthalmic and histological techniques, mouse lipidomes were monitored using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, whereas their transcriptomes were compared to characterize the effects of the mutation on the gene expression profiles in the MG and cornea.

Results

Soat1-/- mice displayed increased tear production and severe corneal abnormalities, such as corneal thinning, (neo)vascularization, ulceration, and opacification that progressed with aging. Transcriptomic analyses led to identification of a range of significantly disrupted pathways, which included general and specific lipid metabolism-related pathways, keratinization, angiogenesis/(neo)vascularization, muscle contraction, and several other pathways. In addition, histological and histochemical experiments revealed morphological changes in the MG, cornea, and conjunctiva in Soat1-/- mice. Notably, the mRNA microarray expression level of Soat1 in WT MGs (log2 17.5) was 1000 × of that in the mouse cornea (log2 7.5).

Conclusions

These findings suggest a direct involvement of Soat1/SOAT1 in MGs in maintaining ocular surface homeostasis, in general, and corneal health, specifically.

Models for Meibomian gland dysfunction: In vivo and in vitro

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a chronic abnormality of the Meibomian glands (MGs) that is recognized as the leading cause of evaporative dry eye worldwide. Despite its prevalence, however, the pathophysiology of MGD remains elusive, and effective disease management continues to be a challenge. In the past 50 years, different models have been developed to illustrate the pathophysiological nature of MGD and the underlying disease mechanisms. An understanding of these models is crucial if researchers are to select an appropriate model to address specific questions related to MGD and to develop new treatments. Here, we summarize the various models of MGD, discuss their applications and limitations, and provide perspectives for future studies in the field.

Expression of ATP-Binding Cassette Transporter A1 (ABCA1) in Eyelid Tissues and Meibomian Gland Epithelial Cells

Purpose

To validate the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) expression and distribution in human eyelid tissues and meibomian gland epithelial cells.

Methods

Meibomian gland tissues from human eyelids were isolated by collagenase A digestion and cultured in defined keratinocyte serum-free medium (DKSFM). Infrared imaging was used to analyze the general morphology of meibomian glands. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and Oil Red O staining were used to observe the morphological structure and lipid secretion in the human meibomian gland tissues. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunostaining were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression and cytolocalization of ABCA1 in the meibomian gland tissues and cultured cells.

Results

The degree of loss of human meibomian gland tissue was related to age. Meibomian gland lipid metabolism was also associated with age. Additionally, human meibomian gland tissues express ABCA1 mRNA and protein; glandular epithelial cells express more ABCA1 mRNA and protein than acinar cells, and their expression in acinar cells decreases with differentiation. Furthermore, the expression of ABCA1 was downregulated in abnormal meibomian gland tissues. ABCA1 was mainly localized on the cell membrane in primary human meibomian gland epithelial cells (pHMGECs), whereas it was localized in the cytoplasm of immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells (iHMGECs). The mRNA and protein levels of ABCA1 in pHMGECs were higher than those in iHMGECs.

Conclusions

Meibomian gland tissues of the human eyelid degenerate with age. ABCA1 expression in acinar cells decreases after differentiation and plays an important role in meibomian gland metabolism.

Dysregulation of Lipid Metabolism in Aging Meibomian Glands and Its Molecular Markers

The main function of exocrine Meibomian glands (MGs) is to produce a lipid-rich secretion called meibum which plays a critical role in maintaining the ocular surface homeostasis of humans and most mammals. The chemical composition of meibum, and its quantity produced by MGs, largely determine whether it can fulfill its role successfully. Aging was frequently associated with the onset of various MG-related pathologies. The goal of this study was to determine how aging affects the chemical composition and quantity of meibum in mice, and identify possible molecular markers of aging. Unbiased, untargeted and targeted lipidomic evaluation of mouse MG lipids was conducted using liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry, and the results were analyzed using Principal Component, Orthogonal Projections to Latent Structures Discriminant, and Partial Least Square Discriminant Analyses. We found that aging leads to dysregulation of lipid metabolism in MGs, changing the ratios of major classes of MG lipids (such as wax esters, triacylglycerols, and phospholipids) in a progressive manner. Several lipid species that belong to these groups of MG lipids are proposed as clear markers of aging in a mouse model.

Sdr16c5 and Sdr16c6 control a dormant pathway at a bifurcation point between meibogenesis and sebogenesis

Genes Sdr16c5 and Sdr16c6 encode proteins that belong to a superfamily of short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR16C5 and SDR16C6). Simultaneous inactivation of these genes in double-KO (DKO) mice was previously shown to result in a marked enlargement of the mouse Meibomian glands (MGs) and sebaceous glands, respectively. However, the exact roles of SDRs in physiology and biochemistry of MGs and sebaceous glands have not been established yet. Therefore, we characterized, for the first time, meibum and sebum of Sdr16c5/Sdr16c6-null (DKO) mice using high-resolution MS and LC. In this study, we demonstrated that the mutation upregulated the overall production of MG secretions (also known as meibogenesis) and noticeably altered their lipidomic profile, but had a more subtle effect on sebogenesis. The major changes in meibum of DKO mice included abnormal accumulation of shorter chain, sebaceous-type cholesteryl esters and wax esters (WEs), and a marked increase in the biosynthesis of monounsaturated and diunsaturated Meibomian-type WEs. Importantly, the MGs of DKO mice maintained their ability to produce typical extremely long chain Meibomian-type lipids at seemingly normal levels. These observations indicated preferential activation of a previously dormant biosynthetic pathway that produce shorter chain, and more unsaturated, sebaceous-type WEs in the MGs of DKO mice, without altering the elongation patterns of their extremely long chain Meibomian-type counterparts. We conclude that the Sdr16c5/Sdr16c6 pair may control a point of bifurcation in one of the meibogenesis subpathways at which biosynthesis of lipids can be redirected toward either abnormal sebaceous-type lipidome or normal Meibomian-type lipidome in WT mice.

Primary cilia control cellular patterning of Meibomian glands during morphogenesis but not lipid composition

Meibomian glands (MGs) are modified sebaceous glands producing the tear film's lipids. Despite their critical role in maintaining clear vision, the mechanisms underlying MG morphogenesis in development and disease remain obscure. Cilia-mediate signals are critical for the development of skin adnexa, including sebaceous glands. Thus, we investigated the role of cilia in MG morphogenesis during development. Most cells were ciliated during early MG development, followed by cilia disassembly during differentiation. In mature glands, ciliated cells were primarily restricted to the basal layer of the proximal gland central duct. Cilia ablation in keratine14-expressing tissue disrupted the accumulation of proliferative cells at the distal tip but did not affect the overall rate of proliferation or apoptosis. Moreover, impaired cellular patterning during elongation resulted in hypertrophy of mature MGs with increased meibum volume without altering its lipid composition. Thus, cilia signaling networks provide a new platform to design therapeutic treatments for MG dysfunction.

Probing dietary triacylglycerol metabolism and meibogenesis in mice: A stable isotope-labeled tracer LC-MS/MS study

Exocrine Meibomian glands (MGs) play a central role in the ocular physiology and biochemistry by producing in situ and, mostly, de novo, a secretion (meibum), which is composed of a complex mixture of homologous lipids of various classes, in a metabolic pathway termed meibogenesis. Recent in vivo experiments with a number of mouse models demonstrated that inactivation of any of the major genes of meibogenesis led to alterations in the lipid composition of meibum and severe ocular and MG abnormalities that replicated various human ocular pathologies. However, the role of dietary lipids in meibogenesis, and in the onset and/or alleviation of these diseases, remains controversial. To uncover the role of dietary lipids, the metabolic transformations of a dietary lipid tracer - stable isotope-labeled glyceryl tri(oleate-1,2,3,7,8-¹³C₅) (¹³C₁₅-TO) - were investigated using LC-high-resolution TOF-MS/MS. We demonstrated that major metabolic transformations of the tracer occurred in the stomach and small intestines where ¹³C₁₅-TO underwent immediate and extensive transesterification into ¹³C₅- and ¹³C₁₀-substituted triacylglycerols of various lengths, giving a mixture of ¹³C-labeled compounds that remain virtually unchanged in the mouse plasma, liver, and white adipose tissue, but were almost undetectable in the feces. Importantly, the tracer and its metabolites were virtually undetectable in MGs, even after 4 weeks of daily supplementation. Notably, unbiased Principal Component Analysis of the data revealed no measurable changes in the overall chemical composition of meibum after the treatment, which implies no direct effect of dietary triacylglycerols on meibogenesis, and left their systemic effects as the most likely mechanism.

Dynamic Changes in the Gene Expression Patterns and Lipid Profiles in the Developing and Maturing Meibomian Glands

Meibomian glands (MGs) and their holocrine secretion-meibum-play crucial roles in the physiology of the eye, providing protection from environmental factors and desiccation, among other functions. Importantly, aging was implicated in the deterioration of the morphology and functions of MGs, and the quantity and quality of meibum they produce, leading to a loss of its protective properties, while the meibum of young individuals and experimental animals provide ample protection to the eye. Currently, the molecular mechanisms of meibum biosynthesis (termed meibogenesis) are not fully understood. To characterize the physiological changes in developing and maturing MGs, we studied the lipidomes and transcriptomes of mouse MGs ranging from newborns to adults. The results revealed a gradual increase in the critical genes of meibogenesis (such as Elovl3, Elovl4, Awat2, and Soat1, among others) that positively correlated with the biosynthesis of their respective lipid products. The MG transcriptomes of young and adult mice were also analyzed using single-cell RNA sequencing. These experiments revealed the existence of multiple unique populations of MG cells (meibocytes, epithelial cells, and others) with specific combinations of genes that encode meibogenesis-related proteins, and identified clusters and subclusters of cells that were tentatively classified as meibocytes at different stages of differentiation/maturation, or their progenitor cells. A hypothesis was formulated that these cells may produce different types of lipids, and contribute differentially to the Meibomian lipidome.

On the importance of chain branching in tear film lipid layer wax and cholesteryl esters

The tear film lipid layer (TFLL) is important to the maintenance of ocular surface health. Surprisingly, information on the individual roles of the myriad of unique lipids found therein is limited. The most abundant lipid species are the wax esters (WE) and cholesteryl esters (CE), and, especially their branched analogs. The isolation of these lipid species from the TFLL has proved to be tedious, and as a result, insights on their biophysical profiles and role in the TFLL is currently lacking. Herein, we circumvent these issues by a total synthesis of the most abundant iso-methyl branched WEs and CEs found in the TFLL. Through a detailed characterization of the biophysical properties, by the use of Langmuir monolayer and wide-angle X-ray scattering techniques, we demonstrate that chain branching alters the behavior of these lipid species on multiple levels. Taken together, our results fill an important knowledge gap concerning the structure and function of the TFLL on the whole.

Hyperglycemia Induces Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Purpose

Patients diagnosed with diabetes are inclined to have abnormalities on stability of tear film and disorder of meibomian gland (MG). This study aims to explore the pathological change of MG induced by diabetes in a rat model.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to establish a diabetic animal model. Lipid accumulation in MG was detected by Oil Red O staining and LipidTox staining. Cell proliferation status was determined by Ki67 and P63 immunostaining, whereas cell apoptosis was confirmed by TUNEL assay. Gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules IL-1α, IL-1β, ELAM1, ICAM1, and VCAM1 were detected by RT-PCR. Activation of ERK, NF-κB, and AMPK signaling pathways was determined by Western Blot analysis. Oxidative stress-related factors NOX4, 4HNE, Nrf2, HO-1, and SOD2 were detected by immunostaining or Western Blot analysis. Tom20 and Tim23 immunostaining and transmission electron microscopy were performed to evaluate the mitochondria functional and structure change.

Results

Four months after STZ injection, there was acini dropout in MG of diabetic rats. Evident infiltration of inflammatory cells, increased expression of inflammatory factors, and adhesion molecules, as well as activated ERK and NF-κB signaling pathways were identified. Oxidative stress of MG was evident in 4-month diabetic rats. Phospho-AMPK was downregulated in MG of 2-month diabetic rats and more prominent in 4-month rats. After metformin treatment, phospho-AMPK was upregulated and the morphology of MG was well maintained. Moreover, inflammation and oxidative stress of MG were alleviated after metformin intervention.

Conclusions

Long-term diabetes may lead to Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). AMPK may be a therapeutic target of MGD induced by diabetes.

Correlations between bulk and surface properties of meibomian lipids with alteration of wax-to-sterol esters content

In a recent study (Ewurum et al., 2021), wax (WE) and sterol esters (CE) from human meibum secretions (MGS) were separated and reconstituted with controlled WE/CE ratios (0%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 75% and 100% CE weight fractions). It was found that the alterations in the CE content of WE/CE mixtures modified the hydrocarbon chain conformation and packing of the mixture. A major question that emerges is whether the spectroscopic packing parameters determined for bulk meibum translate to a change in the performance of meibomian layers at the air/water interface, as it is the surface film functionality that is crucial for the performance of MGS at the ocular surface. The study of human meibum films with Langmuir surface balance was performed to access the surface properties at blink-like deformations of the film area. Surface pressure (π)-area (A) isocycles and stress relaxations were used to assess the layer's reorganization during area cycling and dilatational elasticity, respectively. The morphology of the films was monitored by Brewster angle microscopy. It was found that the increased order and chain melting temperature of the bulk samples correlated with a raise in the maximum surface pressure attained at minimal surface area and in the transient dilatational modulus of the meibomian layers. Such correlations may allow for development of an improved understanding between the bulk and surface properties of human meibum and of other natural and synthetic tear lipid films.

Novel Lipids of the Rabbit Harderian Gland Improve Tear Stability in an Animal Model of Dry Eye Disease

Purpose: Instability of the tear film leads to evaporative dry eye disease (EDED), but the Harderian gland in some terrestrial vertebrates may produce novel lipids that stabilize the tear film and protect against dry eye. Here, the nonpolar lipids in the Harderian gland and tears of the rabbit but absent in human tears were identified and tested in preclinical studies to determine whether they could treat severe EDED. Methods: Lipids were identified primarily by atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (MS) and fragmentation MS/MS. An identified lipid was synthesized and formulated as an emulsion and as a cyclodextrin (CD) clathrate. Following doses with test agents and controls, tear film breakup time (TBUT), tear production, corneal fluorescein staining, macrophage infiltration, and goblet cell survival were measured using standard tests at 0, 2 and 4 weeks in an animal model of EDED. Results: The lipid emulsion increased TBUT (P < 0.01) and tear production (P < 0.05), while it decreased corneal staining (P < 0.01) compared to controls. The lipid CD formulation increased TBUT (P < 0.05) and tear production (P < 0.05) but had no significant effect on the remaining test parameters. There were no differences in macrophage infiltration and conjunctival impression cytology scores between the formulations and their vehicle controls. Conclusions: Lipids in the rabbit Harderian gland and tears differ from those identified in human meibum and tears. These unique rabbit lipids may confer a protective effect against EDED and, as supplements to human tears, fulfill a similar role.

Human meibomian gland epithelial cell culture models: Current progress, challenges, and future directions

The widely used immortalised human meibomian gland epithelia cell (iHMGEC) line has made possible extensive studies of the biology and pathophysiology of meibomian glands (MG). Tissue culture protocols for iHMGEC have been revised and modified to optimise the growth conditions for cell differentiation and lipid accumulation. iHMGEC proliferate in serum-free medium but require serum or other appropriate exogenous factors to differentiate. Several supplements can enhance differentiation and neutral lipid accumulation in iHMGEC grown in serum-containing medium. In serum-free medium, rosiglitazone, a peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-γ (PPARγ) agonist, is reported to induce iHMGEC differentiation, neutral lipid accumulation and expression of key biomarkers of differentiation. iHMGEC cultured in serum-containing medium under hypoxia or with azithromycin increases DNAse 2 activity, a biomarker of terminal differentiation in sebocytes. The production of lipids with composition similar to meibum has not been observed in vitro and this remains a major challenge for iHMGEC culture. Innovative methodologies such as 3D ex vivo culture of MG and generation of MG organoids from stem cells are important for further developing a model that more closely mimics the in vivo biology of human MG and to facilitate the next generation of studies of MG disease and dry eye.

Expression of Acyl-CoA wax-alcohol acyltransferase 2 (AWAT2) by human and rabbit meibomian glands and meibocytes

PURPOSE

Previously, we showed that Acyl-CoA wax-alcohol acyltransferase 2 (AWAT2), an essential enzyme required for meibum wax ester synthesis, was not expressed by immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells (hMGEC) in culture. To begin to understand the mechanisms controlling AWAT2 expression, we have analyzed its expression in human and rabbit meibomian glands and cultured meibocytes.

METHODS

Rabbit meibocyte progenitor cells (rMPC) were first grown in Cnt-BM.1 basal medium (Cellntec) supplemented with rhEGF, FGF10, and ROCK inhibitor (Y-27632 dihydrochloride), and then passed at 70-80% confluency with Accutase. Differentiation of rMPC to meibocytes (rMC) was induced by removal of Y-27632 and addition of 1 mM calcium with and without PPARγ agonists. RNA from the tissue, primary, passaged rMPC and differentiated rMC were obtained for AWAT2 qPCR analysis. Proteins and cells were evaluated for western blotting and neutral lipid synthesis, respectively. For comparison, human meibomian glands were separated for RNA and protein analysis. hMGEC was cultured to collect RNA and protein.

RESULTS

Rabbit rMPCs were successfully grown, passaged, and differentiated, showing a significant increase in lipid droplet accumulation. AWAT2 RNA was highly expressed in tissue but showed a -16.9 log2 fold decrease in primary and passaged rMPCs and was not induced by differentiation to rMC. By comparison, human meibomian glands showed high expression of AWAT2, and hMGEC expressed non-detectable levels of AWAT2 transcripts or protein.

CONCLUSIONS

AWAT2 expression is lost in cultured rMPC and rMC suggesting that cells in culture do not undergo complete meibocyte differentiation and require yet to be identified culture conditions.

Effects of Aging on Human Meibum

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine if aging affects meibum lipid composition in non-meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)/non-dry eye (DE) population. Aging has been repeatedly linked to pathological changes in various tissues and organs, including the onset of MGD and DE, in a number of clinical and population-wide surveys. Both conditions have been associated with abnormal meibum secretion and composition, among other factors. However, the chemical basis for such a connection has not been established yet.

Methods

To identify and characterize possible changes in the meibum and meibogenesis with aging, lipidomic analyses of meibum samples collected from human subjects of two age groups - young (29 ± 5 years, n = 21) and elderly (68 ± 7 years, n = 29) - with similar male to female ratios in each group were conducted. Intact lipid species from major lipid groups of meibum (such as wax esters, cholesteryl esters, free cholesterol, triacylglycerols, etc.) were compared using lipidome-wide untargeted (such as Principal Component Analysis) and targeted (such as Orthogonal Projections to Latent Structures Discriminant Analysis) approaches, along with focused analyses of specific lipid species in liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS) experiments.

Results

Extremely high similarities of meibum lipids in the two age groups were observed, with only minor changes in the individual lipid species. The magnitude of the intergroup variability for tested lipid species was comparable to the intragroup variability for the same meibum components. No statistically significant differences in the lipid esterification, elongation, and unsaturation patterns were observed.

Conclusions

Chronological aging itself seems to have only minor effect on meibogenesis in healthy, non-MGD/non-DE subjects.

Branched and linear fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFA) relevant to human health

Fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) represent a complex lipid class that contains both signaling mediators and structural components of lipid biofilms in humans. The majority of endogenous FAHFAs share a common chemical architecture, characterized by an estolide bond that links the hydroxy fatty acid (HFA) backbone and the fatty acid (FA). Two structurally and functionally distinct FAHFA superfamilies are recognized based on the position of the estolide bond: omega-FAHFAs and in-chain branched FAHFAs. The existing variety of possible HFAs and FAs combined with the position of the estolide bond generates a vast quantity of unique structures identified in FAHFA families. In this review, we discuss the anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects of branched FAHFAs and the role of omega-FAHFA-derived lipids as surfactants in the tear film lipid layer and dry eye disease. To emphasize potential pharmacological targets, we recapitulate the biosynthesis of the HFA backbone within the superfamilies together with the degradation pathways and the FAHFA regioisomer distribution in human and mouse adipose tissue. We propose a theoretical involvement of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the generation and degradation of saturated HFA backbones and present an overview of small-molecule inhibitors used in FAHFA research. The FAHFA lipid class is huge and largely unexplored. Besides the unknown biological effects of individual FAHFAs, also the enigmatic enzymatic machinery behind their synthesis could provide new therapeutic approaches for inflammatory metabolic or eye diseases. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of (FA)HFA synthesis at the molecular level should be the next step in FAHFA research.

Lipidomic analysis of meibomian glands from type-1 diabetes mouse model and preliminary studies of potential mechanism

Diabetes is a significant risk factor for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), but its mechanism is poorly understood. The main function of the meibomian glands (MGs) is to synthesize, store, and secrete lipids. In this study, we found that the amount of lipids in the meibomian acini in STZ-induced type 1 diabetic mice decreased, and the lipid droplets became larger and irregular. In all, 31 lipid subclasses were identified in the mouse MGs, which contained 1378 lipid species in total through lipidomics analysis based on LC-MS/MS. Diabetes caused a significant increase in the content of ceramides (Cer) in the MGs but a significant decrease in the ration of sphingomyelin to ceramides (SM/Cer). The quantity of meibocytes in diabetic mice was dramatically decreased, and the proliferation activity was alleviated, which may be associated with cell cycle arrest caused by diabetes-induced abnormal Cer metabolism in MGs. We found an increase in macrophage and neutrophils infiltration in the diabetic MGs, which may be related to the significant reduction of AcCa in diabetic MGs. Taken together, the results of the present study demonstrated that diabetes induced disruption of lipid homeostasis in MGs, which may mediate the decreased cell proliferation and increased inflammation caused by diabetes in MGs.

Differential effects of dietary cholesterol and triglycerides on the lipid homeostasis in Meibomian glands

Exocrine Meibomian glands (MG) play a central role in the ocular surface physiology by producing meibum - a lipid secretion composed of cholesteryl esters (CE), cholesterol (Chl), triacylgycerols (TAG), waxes and other types of lipids. MG were previously shown to synthesize Meibomian lipids (ML) in situ via a complex array of reactions termed meibogenesis. However, questions remain about the role of dietary lipids in meibogenesis. To establish if dietary Chl (DC) and TAG (DT) can participate in meibogenesis, we studied mice whose diet was supplemented with trace amounts of deuterated Chl (2H-Chl) and 13C-labeled triolein (13C-TO), and the products of their biosynthetic transformations were analyzed using LC/MS. We demonstrated that 2H-Chl, but not 13C-TO, could be directly incorporated into meibum. Furthermore, 2H-Chl was esterified into MG-specific ultra long 2H-CE, which were vastly different from plasma CE and 2H-CE. The measured 2H-Chl/Chl and 2H-CE/CE ratios in meibum increased in a time-dependent manner reaching ∼5% and ∼1.2 %, respectively. The 2H-Chl/2H-CE ratio was about 3.5x higher than that for endogenous unlabeled Chl and CE, indicating accumulation of 2H-Chl in meibum. The elongation pattern of Meibomian 2H-CE closely replicated that of unlabeled CE. On the other hand, 13C-TO was not detected in any of the ML samples as an intact lipid or its metabolized/hydrolyzed products. We conclude that DC can be directly esterified into MG-specific CE, while DT undergo extensive catabolic transformations before reaching MG. These findings demonstrate that DC can have a direct impact on MG and ocular surface lipid homeostasis and pathophysiology.

Triacylglycerol lipidome from human meibomian gland epithelial cells: Description, response to culture conditions, and perspective on function

Preliminary work has shown that select triacylglycerols (TAGs) are upregulated in a preclinical model of MGD, suggesting that TAGs may be an important outcome variable in research involving human meibomian gland epithelial cells (HMGECs). The purpose of this study was to explore the HMGEC TAG lipidome in culture conditions known to influence differentiation. HMGECs were differentiated in DMEM/F12 with 10 ng/ml EGF, FBS (2% or 10%), and rosiglitazone (0, 20, or 50 μM) for two or five days. Following culture, lipids were extracted, processed, and directly infused into a Triple TOF 5600 mass spectrometer (SCIEX, Framingham, MA) with electrospray ionization. MS and MS/MS^ALL spectra were acquired in the positive ion mode and performed with the SWATH technology. Only the TAGs that were present in all 48 samples were included in the analysis. Multiple regression techniques were utilized to assess the effects of each factor (FBS, rosiglitazone, and culture duration) on each expressed TAG. The HMGEC TAG lipidome consisted of 115 TAGs with 42-62 carbons and zero to 10 double bonds. Fatty acyl chains had 14 to 26 carbons and zero to five double bonds. C18:1 (oleic acid, 25/115, 21.7%) and C16:0 (palmitic acid, 16/115, 13.9%) were the most common fatty acids. FBS, rosiglitazone, and culture duration were significant predictors for 93 TAGs (80.9%) with R² values ranging from 0.20 to 0.77 (p < 0.05). FBS and rosiglitazone achieved significance (p < 0.05) for 80 (69.6%) and 67 TAGs (58.3%), respectively. Rosiglitazone demonstrated a selective upregulation of TAGs containing 16 or 18 carbons. Culture duration reached significance (p < 0.05) for only 36 TAGs (31.3%). When comparing the 10 most abundant C18:1-containing TAGs in meibum, FBS was a negative predictor for five TAGs (mean standardized coefficient [SC] = -0.58, p < 0.001), rosiglitazone was a positive predictor for six TAGs (mean SC = 0.41, p ≤ 0.03), and culture duration weakly influenced one TAG (SC = 0.27, p = 0.008). FBS and rosiglitazone, unlike culture duration, are powerful modulators of the TAG profile. Rosiglitazone induces changes that could be consistent with fatty acid synthesis, suggesting that quantifying the TAG lipidome could be an indirect measure of lipogenesis. Though both have been described as differentiating agents, FBS and rosiglitazone induce opposing effects on meibum-relevant TAGs. Culturing with rosiglitazone is associated with a TAG profile that is more consistent with the expected outcome of lipogenesis and with the profile observed in normal human meibum.

Profiling of non-polar lipids in tears of contact lens wearers during the day

PURPOSE

This study explored whether the non-polar lipids in the human tear fluid lipidome show diurnal variation with and without contact lens wear. It also addressed the relationship between changes in ocular comfort during the day with the level of non-polar lipids.

METHODS

Tear samples were collected in the morning and evening with and without contact lenses using fine glass capillary tubes and were analysed by chip-based nano-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric techniques. Tear levels of cholesteryl esters (CE), wax esters (WE) and triacylglycerides (TAG) were quantified.

RESULTS

TAG 48:0, 52:0 and WE 26:0/16:0, and 27:0/17:0 increased from morning to evening. TAG 52:2, WE 21:0/16:0, 21:0/18:1 and 28:0/18:1 decreased during the day when no lenses were worn. CE 21:0 was the only non-polar lipid that increased from morning to evening in contact lens wear. WE 21:0/16:0 and 27:0/17:0 were lower in the morning in contact lens wear compared to no lens wear (p ≤ 0.05). The level of non-polar lipids did not correlate with ocular comfort at the end of the day.

CONCLUSION

Even though the level of some of non-polar lipid species changed from morning to evening the total level of major tear non-polar lipids remained unchanged during the day with and without contact lens wear. The effect of change in the quantity and structure of lipid species on tear stability and ocular comfort warrants more investigation.

Depletion of Cholesteryl Esters Causes Meibomian Gland Dysfunction-Like Symptoms in a Soat1-Null Mouse Model

Previous studies on ablation of several key genes of meibogenesis related to fatty acid elongation, omega oxidation, and esterification into wax esters have demonstrated that inactivation of any of them led to predicted changes in the meibum lipid profiles and caused severe abnormalities in the ocular surface and Meibomian gland (MG) physiology and morphology. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Soat1 ablation that were expected to cause depletion of the second largest class of Meibomian lipids (ML)-cholesteryl esters (CE)-in a mouse model. ML of the Soat1-null mice were examined using liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry and compared with those of Soat1+/- and wild-type mice. Complete suppression of CE biosynthesis and simultaneous accumulation of free cholesterol (Chl) were observed in Soat1-null mice, while Soat1+/- mutants had normal Chl and CE profiles. The total arrest of the CE biosynthesis in response to Soat1 ablation transformed Chl into the dominant lipid in meibum accounting for at least 30% of all ML. The Soat1-null mice had clear manifestations of dry eye and MG dysfunction. Enrichment of meibum with Chl and depletion of CE caused plugging of MG orifices, increased meibum rigidity and melting temperature, and led to a massive accumulation of lipid deposits around the eyes of Soat1-null mice. These findings illustrate the role of Soat1/SOAT1 in the lipid homeostasis and pathophysiology of MG.

Physiological effects of inactivation and the roles of Elovl3/ELOVL3 in maintaining ocular homeostasis

Recently, elongase of very long chain fatty acids-3 (ELOVL3) was demonstrated to play a pivotal role in physiology and biochemistry of the ocular surface by maintaining a proper balance in the lipid composition of meibum. The goal of this study was to further investigate the effects of ELOVL3 ablation in homozygous Elovl3-knockout mice (E3hom) in comparison with age and sex matched wild-type controls (E3wt). Slit lamp examination of the ocular surface of mice, and histological examination of their ocular tissues, highlighted a severe negative impact of Elovl3 inactivating mutation on the Meibomian glands (MG) and conjunctiva of mice. MG transcriptomes of the E3hom and E3wt mice were assessed and revealed a range of up- and downregulated genes related to lipid biosynthesis, inflammation, and stress response, compared with E3wt mice. Heat stage polarized light microscopy was used to assess melting characteristics of normal and abnormal meibum. The loss of Elovl3 led to a 8°C drop in the melting temperature of meibum in E3hom mice, and increased its fluidity. Also noted were the excessive accumulation of lipid material and tears around the eye and severe ocular inflammation, among other abnormalities.

Changes in meibum composition following plaque bachytherapy for choroidal melanoma

Objectives

Dry eye is common when external beam radiation is used for the treatment of choroidal melanoma (CM). As meibum structure and composition have been related to dry eye, we determined if plaque bachytherapy for CM alters meibum composition.

Design

¹H-NMR spectroscopy was used to measure the lipid composition of meibum.

Setting

The University of Louisville, Kentucky, USA.

Participants

All 13 participants had CM and one participant had iris melanoma.

Main outcome measures

Cholesteryl ester (CE) to wax ester (WE) ratio, amount of meibum esters (ME) and meibum lipid saturation were measured.

Results

ME decreased by 80%±18% (±99% CI) in 11 eyes that were treated compared with the contralateral untreated eye. ME increased by 181% in two eyes that were treated compared with the contralateral untreated eye. The mole % CE/WE for meibum was significantly (p<0.0001) 67% lower in eyes that were irradiated compared with control eyes from donors without CM and were not treated. Plaque brachytherapy induced the de-esterification of CE. The intensity of the meibum cis double bond resonances did not change significantly (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Eyes that had plaque brachytherapy had a lower amount of expressible meibum and a lower CE/WE ratio compared with meibum from the contralateral eye that received no treatment and eyes that did not have uveal melanoma. Both the quality and quantity of meibum should be considered in designing a therapy for dry eye after plaque brachytherapy.

Production of branched-chain very-long-chain fatty acids by fatty acid elongases and their tissue distribution in mammals

Although most mammalian fatty acids (FAs) are straight-chain, there also exist branched-chain FAs such as iso- and anteiso-FAs, especially in the meibomian glands. Meibum lipids, which are secreted from the meibomian glands and are important for dry eye prevention, contain abundant branched-chain lipids, such as cholesteryl esters and wax esters with chain-lengths of ≥C21 (very-long-chain; VLC). However, the exact tissue distribution of branched-chain lipids or the enzymes involved in the production of branched-chain VLCFAs has remained poorly understood. Here, we revealed that FA elongases ELOVL1, ELOVL3, and ELOVL7, of the seven mammalian ELOVL isozymes, elongated saturated branched-chain acyl-CoAs. ELOVL3 was highly active toward iso-C17:0 and anteiso-C17:0 acyl-CoAs and elongated them up to iso-C23:0 and anteiso-C25:0 acyl-CoAs, respectively. ELOVL1 elongated both iso- and anteiso-C23:0 acyl-CoAs to C25:0 acyl-CoAs. By establishing a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method capable of separating branched- and straight-chain lipids, we showed that essentially all of the cholesteryl esters and 88% of the wax esters in the mouse meibomian glands are branched. In Elovl1 mutant mice, the levels of ≥C24:0 branched-chain cholesteryl esters and ≥C25:0 branched-chain wax esters were decreased, indicating that ELOVL1 indeed elongates branched-chain VLC acyl-CoAs in vivo. In addition, substantial amounts of ceramides containing branched-chain FAs were present in the skin, meibomian glands, and liver. Our findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms that create FA and lipid diversity.

Deficiency in Acyl-CoA:Wax Alcohol Acyltransferase 2 causes evaporative dry eye disease by abolishing biosynthesis of wax esters

Lipids secreted by the meibomian glands (MGs) of the eyelids are essential to the protection of the eye's surface. An altered meibum composition represents the primary cause of evaporative dry eye disease (DED). Despite the critical importance of the meibum, its biosynthetic pathways and the roles of individual lipid components remain understudied. Here, we report that the genetic deletion of Acyl-CoA:wax alcohol acyltransferase 2 (AWAT2) causes the obstruction of MGs and symptoms of evaporative DED in mice. The lipid composition of the meibum isolated from Awat2^-/- mice revealed the absence of wax esters, which was accompanied by a compensatory overproduction of cholesteryl esters. The resulting increased viscosity of meibum led to the dilation of the meibomian ducts, and the progressive degeneration of the MGs. Overall, we provide evidence for the main physiological role of AWAT2 and establish Awat2^-/- mice as a model for DED syndrome that can be used in studies on tear film-oriented therapies.

Comprehensive profiling of Asian and Caucasian meibomian gland secretions reveals similar lipidomic signatures regardless of ethnicity

Meibum-a lipid secretion that is produced by Meibomian glands (MG) in a process termed meibogenesis-plays a critical role in ocular surface physiology. Abnormalities in the chemical composition of meibum were linked to widespread ocular pathologies-dry eye syndrome (DES) and MG dysfunction (MGD). Importantly, in epidemiologic studies the Asian population was shown to be prone to these pathologies more than the Caucasian one, which was tied to differences in their meibomian lipids. However, biochemical data to support these observations and conclusions are limited. To determine if non-DES/non-MGD Asian meibum was significantly different from that of Caucasians, individual samples of meibum collected from ethnic Asian population living in Japan were compared with those of Caucasians living in the USA. These experiments revealed that composition of major lipid classes, such as wax esters (WE), cholesteryl esters (CE), triacylglycerols, (O)-acylated ω-hydroxy fatty acids (OAHFA), cholesteryl sulfate, cholesteryl esters of OAHFA, and diacylated α,ω-dihydroxy fatty alcohols remained invariable in both races, barring a minor (< 10%; p < 0.01) increase in the Asian CE/WE ratio. Considering the natural variability range for most meibomian lipids (app. ± 15% of the Mean), these differences in meibogenesis were deemed to be minimal and unlikely to have a measurable physiological impact.

Delineating a novel metabolic high triglycerides-low waxes syndrome that affects lipid homeostasis in meibomian and sebaceous glands

Meibomian glands that are embedded in tarsal plates of human eyelids, and sebaceous glands found in the skin, including that of eyelids, are two related types of holocrine glands that produce lipid-rich secretions called meibum and sebum. Pervasive ocular disorders, such as Meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye, have been linked to changes in the lipid composition of meibum. However, in most described cases the changes were either small, or random, or insufficiently characterized on the molecular level. Here, we present results of comprehensive lipidomic analyses of meibum, tears and sebum of a patient whose secretions were highly abnormal (abnormal meibum, tears and sebum, or AMTS, patient). The lipidomes were characterized on the level of individual lipid species using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and high resolution mass spectrometry. The major differences between the AMTS patient and normal age- and gender-matched subjects included, among others, severely diminished pools of normal meibomian lipids such as wax esters and cholesteryl esters in meibum and tears, a 2x increase in total cholesteryl esters to wax esters ratio, their skewed molecular profiles, a ~3x increase in free cholesterol to cholesteryl esters ratio, and, most importantly, a 20x to 30x increase in the triglicerides fraction over the norm. Sebum of the AMTS patient was also highly abnormal lacking major wax esters. Notably, the routine blood lipid panel test of the AMTS patient showed no abnormalities. The data imply that the AMTS patient had a severe, previously unreported, metabolic disorder that affected meibogenesis in Meibomian glands and sebogenesis in sebaceous glands. This is, to the best of our knowledge, a first observation of the condition that we have termed High Triglycerides/Low Waxes (HTLW) syndrome.

Tear 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-Based Metabolomics Application to the Molecular Diagnosis of Aqueous Tear Deficiency and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

PURPOSE

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a major cause of signs and symptoms related to dry eyes (DE) and eyelid inflammation. We investigated the composition of human tears by metabolomic approaches in patients with aqueous tear deficiency and MGD.

METHODS

Participants in this prospective, case-control pilot study were split into patients with aqueous tear deficiency and MGD (DE-MGD [n = 15]) and healthy controls (CG; n = 20). Personal interviews, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), and ophthalmic examinations were performed. Reflex tears collected by capillarity were processed to 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and quantitative data analysis to identify molecules by spectra comparison to library entries of purified standards and/or unknown entities. Statistical analyses were made by the SPSS 22.0 program.

RESULTS

Chemometric analysis and 1H NMR spectra comparison revealed the presence of 60 metabolites in tears. Differentiating features were evident in the NMR spectra of the 2 clinical groups, characterized by significant upregulation of phenylalanine, glycerol, and isoleucine, and downregulation of glycoproteins, leucine, and -CH3 lipids, as compared to the CG. The 1H NMR metabolomic analyses of human tears confirmed the applicability of this platform with high predictive accuracy/reliability.

CONCLUSIONS

Our key distinctive findings support that DE-MGD induces tear metabolomics profile changes. Metabolites contributing to a higher separation from the CG can presumably be used, in the foreseeable future, as DE-MGD biomarkers for better managing the diagnosis and therapy of this disease.

Oral Administration of Sodium Nitrate to Metabolic Syndrome Patients Attenuates Mild Inflammatory and Oxidative Responses to Acute Exercise

The beneficial effects of exercise for the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome pathologies have been related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Dietary nitrate supplementation is an emerging treatment strategy to alleviate the symptoms of metabolic syndrome affections and to improve vascular function. In this double-blind crossover trial, metabolic syndrome patients performed two exercise tests for 30 min at 60–70% maximal heart rate after the intake of a placebo or a nitrate-enriched beverage. Acute exercise increased the plasma concentration of TNFα, intercellular adhesion molecule ICAM1, PGE1, PGE2 and the newly detected 16-hydroxypalmitic acid (16-HPAL) in metabolic syndrome patients. The cytokine and oxylipin production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and neutrophils could be responsible for the plasma concentrations of TNFα and IL6, but not for the plasma concentration of oxylipins nor its post-exercise increase. The intake of sodium nitrate 30 min before exercise increased the concentration of nitrate and nitrite in the oral cavity and plasma and reduced the oxygen cost of exercise. Additionally, nitrate intake prevented the enhancing effects of acute exercise on the plasma concentration of TNFα, ICAM1, PGE1, PGE2 and 16-HPAL, while reducing the capabilities of PBMCs and neutrophils to produce oxylipins.

Evaluation of Cell Harvesting Techniques to Optimize Lipidomic Analysis from Human Meibomian Gland Epithelial Cells in Culture

The lipidomic analysis of immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells (HMGECs) has been proposed as a preclinical model to study meibomian gland dysfunction. An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate neutral lipid recovery following three harvesting techniques and to identify candidate lipid biomarkers of HMGECs. HMGECs were cultured in serum-containing media for two days to promote lipid production. Cells were either harvested by 0.25% trypsin–ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), harvested by 10 mM EDTA, or simultaneously harvested and extracted by 2:1 chloroform–methanol (CM). After extraction by a modified Folch technique, the nonpolar phase was processed and infused into a TripleTOF 5600 mass spectrometer (Sciex, Framingham, MA, USA) with electrospray ionization. MS and MS/MS^all spectra were acquired. Nonpolar cholesteryl esters (CEs) were consistently detected in all samples, while wax esters were not. Only small differences in two out of twenty CEs were detected between harvesting methods. CM yielded less CE18:1 than the other methods but greater CE20:4 than the trypsin–EDTA method (p < 0.05 for all). Similar to human meibum, very long-chain CEs with carbon number (n_c) ≥ 24 were detected in all samples and may serve as HMGEC lipid biomarkers. Further work is needed to address the absence of wax esters. Overall, the three harvesting methods are reasonably equivalent, though CM promotes much better efficiency and is recommended for higher throughput.

Differences in Meibum and Tear Lipid Composition and Conformation

PURPOSE

The compositional, structural, and functional relationships of meibum may provide insights into the loss of tear film stability. Although the conformation of meibum lipids has been studied rigorously, that of tear lipids has not.

METHODS

Tear lipids (TLHSCT) and meibum (MHSCT) from patients who had hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were pooled prospectively. The infrared spectra of meibum from donors with (MMGD) and without (Mn) meibomian gland dysfunction were retrospectively analyzed to measure the lipid composition and structure. The infrared CH stretching region was used to measure the relative content of CH3 and CH2 moieties in the meibum.

RESULTS

The 3 major findings of the current study are as follows: 1) compared with Mn, MHSCT and MMGD had 18% fewer CH3 moieties; 2) compared with MHSCT, the phase transition temperature, cooperativity, and order were approximately 20% greater for TLHSCT; and 3) compared with Mn and MMGD, MHSCT and TLHSCT contained fewer double bonds.

CONCLUSIONS

Tear lipids are more ordered than meibum lipids, which could have functional consequences. The human meibum peak height ratio of the CH3/CH2 bands is not a factor related to tear film stability with age or sex. The amount of CH3 moieties relative to CH2 moieties and saturation could contribute to a higher meibum lipid order associated with a younger age, meibomian gland dysfunction, and dry eye from hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Therefore, the hydrocarbon order may be a marker of or contribute to an unstable tear film layer.

Human Meibum Cholesteryl and Wax Ester Variability With Age, Sex, and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Purpose

Relationships between tear film lipid (TFL) layer composition, structure, and function could provide insight into the etiology of dry eye. The molar ratio of cholesteryl ester (CE)/wax ester (WE) was measured in meibum from normal donors (M_n) and compared with meibum from donors with meibomian gland dysfunction (M_MGD).

Methods

CE/WE was measured using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

CE/WE was distributed into two populations with 81% distributed near 0.55 and 19% near 0.3. CE/WE were higher in donors 13 to 19 years old compared with donors 1 to 12 years old and 20 to 88 years old. CE/WE for M_MGD was 30% lower, 0.34 ± 0.04, compared with M_n, 0.49 ± 0.04. There were no sex differences in CE/WE. There were no significant racial differences between the CE/WE ratios for Asians and Caucasians. The CE/WE ratio was higher for blacks and lower for Hispanics compared to Caucasians. Due to the small number sampled, confirmation of the later racial results is needed. The packing of CE and WE in the TFL layer was proposed.

Conclusions

Although M_MGD contains much less CE than M_n, factors other than the CE content, such as the levels of saturation and/or proteins, may be responsible for the higher order of M_MGD. In addition to saturation, CE could contribute to the increase in order of M_n between 0 and 20 years of age. Observed changes in the meibum content of CE alone is not likely to influence tear film stability.

Cyclic Change of Fatty Acid Composition in Meibum During the Menstrual Cycle

Purpose

To evaluate the fatty acid (FA) composition in the meibum of pre- and postmenopausal women and age-matched men.

Methods

This prospective study involved 24 healthy subjects; six premenopausal women in their 30s with a regular menstrual cycle (young-female [yF] group), six postmenopausal women in their 60s (elderly-female [eF] group), and 12 age-matched men (i.e., young-male [yM] and elderly-male [eM] groups, respectively). The menstrual cycle was divided into six phases (phase I–VI). Meibum was obtained from the meibomian gland orifices via a Daviel spoon, and its FA composition was then analyzed via gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed on the GC-MS results.

Results

The mean FA composition of all subjects was 40% saturated FAs (SFA) and 60% unsaturated FAs (UFAs). The PCA results of all groups indicated two categories (PC1 [77.5%] and PC2 [12.4%]); one consisting of yF-group samples of mainly phase II and III and the other consisting of the yF-group samples of the rest of the cycle, as well as from eF-group, yM-group, and eM-group samples. Each group had a distinctive nature. The FAs that most contributed to PC1 were C_14:0, C_16:0, and C_18:0 in a positive correlation, and C_18:1n9 in a negative correlation.

Conclusions

FA composition noticeably changes during the menstrual cycle and is somewhat affected by sex and age. The ratio of SFAs (C_16:0, C_18:0) to mono-UFAs (C_18:1n9) in the FA composition might have an impact on the lipid quality of meibum, thus suggesting alteration of its melting temperature and viscosity.

Comparative Transcriptomic and Lipidomic Analyses of Human Male and Female Meibomian Glands Reveal Common Signature Genes of Meibogenesis

Meibum is a lipid secretion that is produced by holocrine Meibomian glands (MGs). MGs are a specialized type of sebaceous glands that are embedded in the human eyelids. Chemically, meibum and sebum are different. A detailed characterization of lipidome and transcriptome of MG is required to deconvolute a complex and poorly characterized array of biosynthetic reactions (termed meibogenesis) that lead to formation of meibum. Changes in the composition and quality of meibum have been linked to various ocular disorders, some of which are more prevalent in males, while others in females. To establish the role of gender in meibogenesis in humans, we characterized MG transcriptomes and lipidomes of females and males, and identified signature genes of meibogenesis in both genders. Specimens of MG tissues were subjected to mRNA microarray analyses. Chemical composition of meibum samples was assessed chromatographically and mass spectrometrically. Both targeted and untargeted approaches were used. About 290 signature genes of meibogenesis were identified. The analyses of their expression patterns demonstrated no major differences between the genders. Lipid profiling of major classes of meibomian lipids, such as wax esters, cholesteryl esters, free cholesterol, (O)-acylated omega-hydroxy fatty acids (OAHFA), cholesteryl esters of OAHFA, and triacylglycerols, also demonstrated only minor (and random) differences in these lipids. The results of transcriptomic analyses correlated well with lipidomic data. Taken together, our data imply that in males and females, meibogenesis proceeds in a similar fashion, yielding secretions with similar, highly conserved, compositions. This finding is important for designing novel, gender-independent diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to various MG-related diseases and pathological conditions.

On the pivotal role of Elovl3/ELOVL3 in meibogenesis and ocular physiology of mice

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of Elovl3 gene in meibogenesis and the impact of ELOVL3 protein ablation on the physiology of the mouse ocular surface and Meibomian glands (MGs). Elovl3 knockout, ELOVL3-ablated (E3hom) mice and their wild type littermates (E3wt) were studied side by side. E3hom mice had abnormal ocular phenotypes such as delayed eye opening, weeping eyes, crusty eyelids, eyelid edema, highly vascularized cornea and tarsal plates (TPs), slit eye, and increased tearing that resemble symptoms observed in human subjects with various forms of dry eye, MG dysfunction and blepharitis. Lipid profiling of E3hom TPs was conducted using chromatography and mass spectrometry. The analyses revealed that the lipid composition of E3hom TPs was strikingly different from that of their E3wt littermates. The mutation affected major classes of meibomian lipids - cholesteryl esters, wax esters, and cholesteryl esters of (O)-acylated w-hydroxy fatty acids. The studies illuminated the central role of ELOVL3 in producing C_21:0-C_29:0 fatty acids, including odd-chain and branched ones. Ablation of ELOVL3 leads to selective changes in the lipid composition of meibum, making E3hom mice instrumental in studying the mechanisms of the biosynthesis of meibum and modeling various pathologies of human ocular surface and adnexa.-Butovich, I. A., Wilkerson, A., Bhat, N., McMahon, A., Yuksel, S. On the pivotal role of Elovl3/ELOVL3 in meibogenesis and ocular physiology of mice.

Effects of sex (or lack thereof) on meibogenesis in mice (Mus musculus): Comparative evaluation of lipidomes and transcriptomes of male and female tarsal plates

The possible role of sex in the biosynthesis of lipids in the Meibomian glands (termed meibogenesis) remains unclear. To determine if there were any major sex-specific differences in the lipid composition of meibomian gland secretions (meibum) and gene expression patterns (GEP) related to meibogenesis, we conducted a study using healthy, age and diet-matched young adult wild-type C57BL/6J mice (2-2.5 month old). Tarsal plates (TP) were surgically excised from the eyelids of mice and subjected to transcriptomic and lipidomic analyses. The GEP were studied using mRNA microarrays. Lipids were extracted with organic solvents and analyzed using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. GEP in the TP of female and male mice demonstrated no statistically significant differences in the expression levels of the main protein-coding genes related to lipid metabolism and storage in general, and meibogenesis specifically (such as Elovl, Scd, Fads, Soat, Far, Awat, Acat, Lss, Dhcr, Hmgcr, Hmgcs, Dgat, Bckdh, Dbt, Fasn, and Plin, among others). The meibomian lipid profiles of female and male mice were virtually indistinguishable: all major lipids such as waxes, cholesteryl esters, cholesterol, (O)-acylated omega-hydroxy fatty acids (OAHFA), cholesteryl esters of OAHFA etc., were present in similar ratios. It seems that the major biosynthetic pathways in the Meibomian glands of male and female mice function in a similar fashion and produce secretions of the same overall chemical composition.

Human meibum chain branching variability with age, gender and meibomian gland dysfunction

NMR spectroscopy was used to measure hydrocarbon chain branching variability in meibum with age, gender and Meibomian gland dysfuction (MGD). A cohort of 65 meibum donors without dry eye and 31 donors with MGD was studied. Heteronuclear 2D NMR was used to confirm CH₃ resonance assignments allowing us to positively identify 23 of the 27 proton resonances of cholesteryl ester and ¹H resonances due to straight chain, iso-branched and anteiso-branched hydrocarbons. Meibum from donors without dry eye contained 57 ± 1% straight-chains, 23 ± 1% iso-branched chains and 20 ± 1% anteiso-branched hydrocarbon chains. Compared with meibum from donors without dry eye, meibum from donors with MGD contained less, 50 ± 2% straight-chains, more, 32 ± 2% iso-branched chains and the same amount, 18.0 ± 0.07%, of anteiso-branched hydrocarbon chains. Meibum hydrocarbon chain branching did not change with age between 22 and 68 years of age, nor was it influenced by gender. Based on previous studies, one would expect anteiso-branched chains would contribute to lowering the phase transition temperature of meibum, decrease the elasticity of the tear film lipid layer and increase the molecular area and spreading of meibum on the surface of the eye. Although we speculate that the observed differences in iso-chain branching do not influence tear film stability or rheology, the speculation has yet to be tested.

Naturally occurring ω-Hydroxyacids

ω-Hydroxyacids are fatty acids bearing a hydroxyl group on the terminal carbon. They are found in mammals and higher plants and are often involved in providing a permeability barrier, the primary purpose of which is to reduce water loss. Some ω-hydroxyacid derivatives may be involved in waterproofing and signalling. The purpose of this review was to survey the known natural sources of ω-hydroxyacids. ω-Hydroxyacids are produced by two different P450-dependent mechanisms. The longer (30-34 carbons) ω-hydroxyacids are produced by chain extension from palmitic acid until the chain extends across the membrane in which the extension is taking place, and then the terminal carbon is hydroxylated. Shorter fatty acids can be hydroxylated directly to produce C16 and C18 ω-hydroxyacids found in plants and 20-eicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) by a different P450. The C16 and C18 ω-hydroxyacids are components of polymers in plants. The long-chain ω-hydroxyacids are found in epidermal sphingolipids, in giant-ring lactones from the sebum of members of the equidae, as a component of meibum and in carnauba wax and wool wax.

Meibomian glands, meibum, and meibogenesis

Meibum is a lipid-rich secretion that is produced by fully differentiated meibocytes in the holocrine Meibomian glands (MG) of humans and most mammals. The secretion is a part of a defense mechanism that protects the ocular surface from hazardous environmental factors, and from desiccation. Meibomian lipids that have been identified in meibum are very diverse and unique in nature. The lipid composition of meibum is different from virtually any other lipid pool found in the human body. In fact, meibum is quite different from sebum, which is the closest secretion that is produced by anatomically, physiologically, and biochemically related sebaceous glands. However, meibum of mice have been shown to closely resemble that of humans, implying similar biosynthetic mechanisms in MG of both species. By analyzing available genomic, immunohistochemical, and lipidomic data, we have envisioned a unifying network of enzymatic reactions that are responsible for biosynthesis of meibum, which we call meibogenesis. Our current theory is based on an assumption that most of the biosynthetic reactions of meibogenesis are catalyzed by known enzymes. However, the main features that make meibum unique - the ratio of identified classes of lipids, the extreme length of its components, extensive ω-hydroxylation of fatty acids and alcohols, iso- and anteiso-branching of meibomian lipids (e.g. waxes), and the presence of rather unique complex lipids with several ester bonds - make it possible that either the activity of known enzymes is altered in MG, or some unknown enzymes contribute to the processes of meibogenesis, or both. Studies are in progress to elucidate meibogenesis on molecular level.

Meibomian glands, meibum, and meibogenesis

Meibum is a lipid-rich secretion that is produced by fully differentiated meibocytes in the holocrine Meibomian glands (MG) of humans and most mammals. The secretion is a part of a defense mechanism that protects the ocular surface from hazardous environmental factors, and from desiccation. Meibomian lipids that have been identified in meibum are very diverse and unique in nature. The lipid composition of meibum is different from virtually any other lipid pool found in the human body. In fact, meibum is quite different from sebum, which is the closest secretion that is produced by anatomically, physiologically, and biochemically related sebaceous glands. However, meibum of mice have been shown to closely resemble that of humans, implying similar biosynthetic mechanisms in MG of both species. By analyzing available genomic, immunohistochemical, and lipidomic data, we have envisioned a unifying network of enzymatic reactions that are responsible for biosynthesis of meibum, which we call meibogenesis. Our current theory is based on an assumption that most of the biosynthetic reactions of meibogenesis are catalyzed by known enzymes. However, the main features that make meibum unique - the ratio of identified classes of lipids, the extreme length of its components, extensive ω-hydroxylation of fatty acids and alcohols, iso- and anteiso-branching of meibomian lipids (e.g. waxes), and the presence of rather unique complex lipids with several ester bonds - make it possible that either the activity of known enzymes is altered in MG, or some unknown enzymes contribute to the processes of meibogenesis, or both. Studies are in progress to elucidate meibogenesis on molecular level.