Atrophic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Induced by Eyelid Margin Cryotherapy with Liquid Nitrogen

Abstract Objective To develop an atrophic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) animal model via liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. Methods C57 mice underwent eyelid margin exposure to liquid nitrogen for 30 seconds. MG morphology and ocular surface were assessed using stereomicroscopy and a slit lamp microscope at multiple time points post-injury. Results Acinar loss and atrophy were observed from day 7, with increased inflammation and apoptosis, and decreased proliferation in acinar cells. Corneal epithelial defects appeared after day 14. Conclusion Liquid nitrogen induced selective damage to meibomian acinar cells, simulating MGD pathology effectively, with peak effects at day 21, providing a relevant model for atrophic MGD research.