Dry eye disease (DED) is an increasingly common disorder in today’s world. Though its exact pathology is not yet fully understood, various factors behind the condition are known.1 As the first line of barrier, the corneal layer is subjected to numerous challenges, both from external (environmental) and internal factors (hormonal imbalance, infection, age, etc.) that can disturb its integrity.2 The ocular surface contains various protective systems (e.g., antioxidants) that help preserve this integrity.
Disturbances in these measures or the cellular integrity of the ocular surface can lead to inflammation and conditions such as DED.3