Identification of Meibomian gland stem cell populations and mechanisms of aging

• DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.09.607015
• Publication Date: 2024-08-10T18:55:12Z
• Authors: Xuming Zhu; Mingang Xu; Celine Portal; Yvonne Lin; Alyssa Ferdinand; Tien Peng; Edward E. Morrisey; Andrzej A. Dlugosz; Joseph M. Castellano; Vivian Lee; John T. Seykora; Carlo Iomini; Sarah E Millar
• Keywords: Meibomian gland

Summary Meibomian glands secrete lipid-rich meibum, which prevents tear evaporation. Aging-related gland shrinkage may result in part from stem cell exhaustion and is associated with evaporative dry eye disease, a common condition lacking effective treatment. The identities niche of cells the signals controlling their activity are poorly defined. Using snRNA-seq, vivo lineage tracing, ex live imaging, genetic studies mice, we identified markers for populations that maintain distinct regions uncovered Hh signaling as key regulator proliferation. Consistent this, human carcinoma exhibited increased signaling. Aged displayed decreased EGF signaling, deficient innervation, loss collagen I fibroblasts, indicating alterations both glandular epithelial surrounding microenvironment contribute to age-related degeneration. These findings suggest new approaches treat aging-associated loss.