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Tear Dynamics: Tear Osmolarity and Reflex Features of the Lacrimal Functional Unit

Tears are produced by the lacrimal gland and distributed over the ocular surface by blinking. Abnormalities in the tear film layer, or the processes involved in tear production, distribution, evaporation, and drainage can cause dry eye.

Our research examines tear dynamics and the regulation of tear secretion by the Lacrimal Functional Unit (LFU), a collection of functions that control tear secretion and maintains a healthy ocular surface.

Professor Anthony Bron
Professor Roger Buckley
Dr Catherine Willshire

Recent publications

Willshire, C., Bron, A. J., Gaffney, E. A., Pearce, E. I., 2018. Basal Tear Osmolarity as a metric to estimate body hydration and dry eye severity. Progress in retinal and eye research, 64, pp. 56-64. doi: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.02.001

Willshire, C., Buckley, R. J., Bron, A. J., 2018. Estimating basal tear osmolarity in normal and dry eye subjects. Contact Lens and Anterior Eye, 41(1), pp. 34-46. doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2017.09.005

Willshire, C., Buckley, R. J., Bron, A. J., 2017. Central Connections of the Lacrimal Functional Unit. Cornea, 36(8), pp. 898-907. doi: 10.1097/ICO.0000000000001250