Summary
Dry Eye Disease affects over thirty million Americans and imposes an annual economic burden exceeding $55 billion in healthcare costs and lost productivity. Despite its clinical importance, the fundamental principles connecting the molecular composition of this lipid layer to its mechanical performance remain poorly understood. Most current treatments address symptoms rather than the underlying causes of film instability. This research project will identify the design rules that govern how tear film lipid composition controls stability, lubrication, and resistance to mechanical failure. The fi
