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Enzymatic Activities Found in Human Tears

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Progress in Anterior Eye Segment Research and Practice

Part of the book series: Documenta Ophthalmologica Proceedings Series ((DOPS,volume 18))

Abstract

Many active proteins including enzymes have been observed in human tears. Some of these proteins, including the enzymes lysozyme and amylase, are secreted by the lacrimal gland. Other enzymes found in tears are lysosomal in origin and the tissue source is not yet known. Desquamating epithelial cells of the cornea and conjunctiva are another source of enzymes found in tears. One of the major functions of tear proteins including the enzyme lysozyme appears to be protection of the eye from microorganisms. Other enzyme activities of the tears are probably important in breaking down the cellular debris of microorganisms and desquamating epithelial cells and assisting in the turnover of tear components.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Irvine, California, USA

    Janet A. Anderson & Irving H. Leopold

  2. Department of Ophthalmology, California College of Medicine University of California, Irvine, California, 92717, USA

    Janet A. Anderson & Irving H. Leopold

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  1. Janet A. Anderson
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  2. Irving H. Leopold
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O. Hockwin W. B. Rathbun

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© 1979 Dr W. Junk b.v. Publishers

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Anderson, J.A., Leopold, I.H. (1979). Enzymatic Activities Found in Human Tears. In: Hockwin, O., Rathbun, W.B. (eds) Progress in Anterior Eye Segment Research and Practice. Documenta Ophthalmologica Proceedings Series, vol 18. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-9609-0_38

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-9609-0_38

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht

  • Print ISBN: 978-90-6193-158-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-94-009-9609-0

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