Abstract
Background To evaluate the composition and characteristics of capuchin monkey (CM) tear film. Methods Results Eleven CM (Sapajus sp.) was evaluated. Strip meniscometry test (SMT), osmolarity, and tear ferning test (TFT) (by Rolando and Masmali scales) were assessed. Tear protein profile (SDS-PAGE), and total protein, albumin, urea, glucose, and cholesterol levels in tear film and blood serum were screened. Median +/- semi-interquatil range for SMT and osmolarity values were 8.0 +/- 1.625 and 303.0 +/- 9.875, respectively. TFT for Rolando was 2.0 +/- 0.5, and Masmali was 2.0 +/- 0.0. Monkeys's tear obtained type II and III for Rolando, and 1 and 2 for Masmali. Tear components showed protein bands among 23-217 kDa, and presence of albumin, urea, glucose, and cholesterol. Conclusions The results of SMT, osmolarity, TFT, SDS-PAGE, and tear biochemistry may serve as a reference baseline for CM, and the data may serve as a basis for future experimental model evaluations.