Author Spotlight: Isolating Biomolecules from Mouse Tears — A Methodology for Molecular Analysis and Biomarker Research

We are interested in exploring the feasibility of isolating biomolecules such as proteins, DNA, RNAs from mouse tears, similar to what has been done in humans. This would allow us to develop a simple and efficient methodology to use in scientific basic research. In humans, a diverse range of technologies has been employed to unravel the molecular composition of tears, such as immunoassays like Western blot analyzer as well as mass spectrometry.

These analyses have paved the way for the development of biosensors capable of identifying specific molecules of interest. We have developed an optimal methodology for obtaining a substantial volume of tears from mice, facilitating their molecular analysis in basic science laboratories. This protocol facilitates the identification of different proteins and messenger RNA of interest.

Researching biomarkers present in eye liquid biopsy is in the public spotlight nowadays. Whether it is for eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or systemic diseases like Alzheimer or Parkinson, a minimally invasive sample, the tear film, poses an opportunity for diagnosis. As has been reported in humans, we have addressed the next question for our mirroring model.

The tears reflect molecular changes that appear in diseases. Those tear composition harbor biomolecules that can be found in other liquid biopsies such as blood or saliva.