The Role of the Epithelial Glycocalyx
Glycocalyx are long chain molecules formed by corneal cells that help anchor mucin to the epithelial surface. Mucin creates a hydrophilic ocular surface, as well as a barrier to bacterial pathogens.1
Since the corneal surface is naturally water repellent, damage to the glycocalyx and corneal surface cells may be caused by insufficient mucin. This can cause the tear film to destabilize and break up before resurfacing from the blink can occur, exposing the injured cornea to the air and bacterial pathogens.
Back to the Top- Korb DR, Craig J, Doughty M, Guillon J, Smith G, Tomlinson A. The Tear Film: Structure, Function and Clinical Examination. BCLA, 2002.