Androgen Regulation of the Meibomian Gland

Androgens are known to control the development, differentiation and lipid production of sebaceous glands throughout the body.1 Given that the meibomian gland is a large sebaceous gland,1,2 we hypothesize that androgens may regulate meibomian gland function, enhance the quality and quantity of lipids produced by this tissue and stimulate the formation of the tear film’s lipid layer. In addition, we hypothesize that androgen deficiency (e.g. due to menopause, aging, Sjogren’s syndrome, anti-androgen medications, inherent insensitivity) may lead to meibomian gland dysfunction and consequent ‘evaporative’ dry eye.