Living with your biome: how the bacterial microbiome impacts ocular surface health and disease

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Microbiome research has grown exponentially, but the ocular surface microbiome (OSM) remains an area in need of further study. This review aims to explore its complexity, disease-related microbial changes, and immune interactions, and highlights the potential for its manipulation as a therapeutic for ocular surface diseases. Areas Covered We introduce the OSM by location and describe what constitutes a normal OSM. Second, we highlight aspects of the ocular immune system and discuss potential immune microbiome interactions in health and disease. Finally, we highlight how microbiome manipulation may have therapeutic potential for ocular surface diseases. Expert Opinion The ocular surface microbiome varies across its different regions, with core phyla identified, but with genus variability. A few studies have linked microbiome composition to diseases like dry eye, but more research is needed, including examining microbiome interactions with the host. Studies have noted that manipulating the microbiome may impact disease presentation. As such, microbiome manipulation via diet, oral, and topical pre- and probiotics, and hygienic measures may provide new therapeutic algorithms in ocular surface diseases.