Abstract

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (XFS) is a stress or inflammation-induced elastosis with increased microfibril production and deposition in the anterior segment. Aqueous humour (AH) metabolite assessment may aid in understanding of this disease. Aim: To compare the composition of AH in XFS and non-XFS patients undergoing cataract surgery. Methods: Prospective case control study where 44 patients with cataract were divided into 2 matched groups (with and without XFS) by a single trained ophthalmologist and aqueous tap done during cataract surgery. Metabolites were isolated from AH using high performance liquid chromatography and compared between the groups. Results: Patients with XFS showed lower levels of 7 metabolic derivatives of cysteine, methionine, arginine and proline with p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: Reduced levels of key amino acid metabolites in AH play a key role in pathogenesis of XFS which is linked to accelerated cataract formation and secondary open angle glaucoma.