The Neurobiology of the Meibomian Glands

• Published in: The ocular surface Vol. 12; no. 3; pp. 167 - 177
• Main Authors: Cox, Stephanie M., OD, Nichols, Jason J., OD, MPH, PhD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.07.2014
• Subjects: Animals; calcitonin gene-related peptide; dopamine beta-hydroxylase; Humans; innervations; meibomian gland; Meibomian Glands - blood supply; Meibomian Glands - innervation; Meibomian Glands - metabolism; neuroanatomy; Neurobiology - methods; neuropeptide Y; Neuropeptides - metabolism; Ophthalmology; substance P; tyrosine hydroxylase; vasoactive intestinal polypeptide; innervations; neuropeptide Y; calcitonin gene-related peptide; dopamine beta-hydroxylase; neuroanatomy; substance P; meibomian gland; vasoactive intestinal polypeptide; tyrosine hydroxylase

Abstract This article compiles research regarding the neuroanatomy of the meibomian glands and their associated blood vessels. After a review of meibomian gland morphology and regulation via hormones, a case for innervation is made based on anatomical findings whereby the nerves lack a myelin sheath...