Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Dry Eye: A Comprehensive Review of Pathogenic Mechanisms and Implications for Targeted Therapy

Guo X, Wang C, Liu W, Sun Y, Su L, Wang H, Liu B · International Journal of General Medicine · 2026 March

Objective

To investigate the role of neutrophil extracellular traps in the development of dry eye disease and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusions

This review concludes that neutrophil extracellular traps are key pathogenic drivers of dry eye disease and are causally linked to ocular surface pathology.

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Insights

Neutrophil extracellular traps may drive dry eye disease by intensifying ocular surface inflammation and tear film dysfunction.

The paper reviewed clinical and mechanistic research examining neutrophil extracellular traps in dry eye disease, focusing on their presence in tear fluid, associations with inflammatory markers, and potential effects on ocular surface health. The reviewed evidence suggests that neutrophil extracellular traps contribute to ocular surface damage, inflammation, impaired tear production, and unstable tear films, making them promising targets for treatment development.