Abstract 1529 The Ocular Microbiome: A Window into Human Microbiomics

Studies of human microbiomics, spanning diverse anatomical sites, offer a unique perspective into the complex microbial communities within the body. Influenced by age, gender, and disease, it mirrors broader microbial ecosystems. This study specifically delves into the ocular microbiome, comparing its composition in 30 healthy and diseased patients using 16S rRNA gene sequencing post-ocular swabbing. We identified a rich microbial landscape, identifying over 150 taxa. Notably, Acinetobacter, Cutibacterium, and Caryophanales were prevalent in more than half of the samples, while 85 taxa occurred only once. Moreover, dry eye disease conditions were characterized by a higher prevalence of Solirubrobacterales, Acinetobacter, and Enterococcaceae, whereas healthy eyes exhibited a distinct microbial composition, including the presence of Streptococcus and Pedobacter. These specific microbiome signatures offer nuanced insights into ocular health. This integrated approach enhances our capacity to develop targeted therapeutic interventions, emphasizing the translational potential of microbiomics in improving human health.