Epidermal growth factor is a constant component of normal human tear fluid

Abstract

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a mitogenic polypeptide, which was first isolated from mouse submaxillary gland. Since EGF also stimulates the growth of corneal epithelial cells and only preliminary data exist on its presence in tear fluid, we studied the occurrence of human EGF (hEGF) in the tear fluid of 36 healthy persons (31 women and 5 men from 20 to 59 years of age; 60 eyes). hEGF, as measured by an immunofluorometric assay, was present in all tear fluid samples investigated. Its concentration varied from 200 to 2860 pg/ml (median, 705 pg/ml). The tear fluid hEGF concentrations differed less between the eyes of one individual than between individuals. The total amount of hEGF released to the tear fluid increased with fluid flow, but the higher the flow was, the lower the concentration of hEGF. We could not find any evidence of sex dependency in the hEGF concentrations. In demonstrating that hEGF is a normal component of human tear fluid, the results of this study suggest that hEGF may be important for conjunctival and corneal epithelial integrity.

Autologous serum eye drops for the treatment of severe dry eye in patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease

“…12,16 Cultures of human corneal stromal fibroblasts and endothelial cells were reported to express EGF receptors and to increase their DNA synthesis in the presence of EGF. 17 Artificial tears made from autologous serum could supply these factors and improve the condition of the ocular surface after commercially available artificial tears have failed.…”

“…9,10,11 Autologous serum has been used as eye drops for dry eyes because it contains the vitamins, several growth factors and fibronectin that are important for corneal and conjunctival integrity. 9,12,13 .…”

Diretrizes para o diagnóstico, classificação, profilaxia e tratamento da doença enxerto contra hospedeiro crônica

“…[105][106][107] Soro autólogo tem sido utilizado porque contém vitaminas, diversos fatores de crescimento e fibronectina, que são importantes para a integridade da córnea e conjuntiva. 108,109 Soro autólogo é indicado para o tratamento da xeroftalmia grave associada à DECH-c ocular para renovar os componentes do filme lacrimal e da superfície ocular. 110,111 Terapia adjuvante ginecológica O diagnóstico da DECH-c vulvovaginal é estabelecido por achados físicos e sintomas, que se apresentam como anormalidades da mucosa ou alterações escleróticas.…”

Allogeneic serum eye drops for the treatment of persistent corneal epithelial defect

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6] Autologous serum has been found to contain vitamin A, epidermal growth factor, fibronectin, and transforming growth factor-b, which are important substances for corneal and conjunctival integrity. 3,4 However, autologous serum may be contraindicated or unavailable in infants, the elderly, patients with severe systemic bacterial infections or acute autoimmune disease, and those afraid of phlebotomy. In addition, in traditional Chinese/ Taiwanese culture, patients hesitate to have frequent venepuncture because they believe that this procedure will weaken them; this belief is especially common in the elderly.…”