The Possible Protective Effect of Chia Seed Oil on Atropine Induced Dry Eye Model in Male Adult Albino Rat: A Histological Study

Abstract Background Dry eye disease is a multifactorial disease that could be presented by discomfort, burning, itching, redness, light sensitivity, visual problems, and instability of the tear film. It might be complicated by damage to the surface of the eye. The nutritional composition of chia seed oil (CSO) provided many health-promoting properties. CSO is generally considered to be the best plant source of Omega-3 fatty acids. In ophthalmology, omega-3 is considered as essential fatty acid for ocular surface homeostasis. It works by blocking proinflammatory eicosanoids and reducing cytokines through anti-inflammatory activity. Aim of the Work assess possible protective effect of chia seed oil on atropine induced dry eye in male adult albino rat. Materials and Methods Forty adult male albino rats were used in this study and were divided in to four groups (10 in each group): Group I (Control group), Group II (CSO group) CSO 2. 5 ml/kg/day orally by gavage feeding tube for 14 days, Group III (DED group) induction of DED by injecting 1 mg/kg atropine (single dose) into the extra orbital lacrimal gland in the right eye, Group IV (treated group) CSO was given as in group II and on day 7, dry eye was induced as in group III. Results In group III, there was prominent detachment in the corneal epithelium and increase in the conjunctival epithelium thickness with irregular cellular arrangement. Newly formed blood vessels were observed in substantia propria of cornea with irregular organization of collagen lamellae. Inflammatory cells infiltration was seen in subconjunctival connective tissue. All these findings showed improvement in group IV. Conclusion Chia seed oil extract could be beneficial in reducing the symptoms associated with DED.