Research Progress on Tear Film and the Ocular Surface Environment

The tear film covering the entire ocular surface is an important component of the ocular surface micro-environment. The disturbance of the homeostasis of the tear film can result in the dysfunction of other ocular structures, which will exacerbate the development of ocular diseases. This article reviews recent research progress on the effect of tear film on other components of the ocular surface, such as the ocular epithelium, corneal stroma, corneal nerve and ocular microbiota to provide new ideas for the pathogenesis and treatment of ocular surface diseases. Key words: tear film; ocular surface micro-environment; ocular microbiota; sjogren syndrome