TRN Guidelines
The Tear Research Network (TRN) is proud to present the latest version of its guidelines. Compiled with input from researchers worldwide, these guidelines reflect the latest advancements in the field. Developed through the collective efforts of many members within dedicated task forces and following the Delphi guidelines for surveys and consensus-building, the TRN Guidelines aim to standardize research practices, enhance reproducibility, and promote transparency in this rapidly evolving field.
Reporting Guideline (TEAR-RG): a Delphi Consensus
Tear fluid is a valuable biomarker source, but inconsistent reporting has hindered reproducibility. To address this, the Tear Research Network developed the TEAR-Reporting Guidelines (TEAR-RG)—an internationally recognized framework for standardizing tear fluid research.
Using the Delphi methodology, 74 professionals reviewed 35 key reporting statements on terminology, sample collection, storage, processing, analysis, and data normalization. 34 statements reached consensus, with 26 achieving 90%+ agreement, underscoring the need for standardized practices.
The TEAR-RG guidelines aims to enhance reproducibility and transparency in tear fluid biomarker research.
📌 Full guidelines coming soon!
Terminology Guideline: a Delphi panel
Tear fluid research lacks consistent terminology, with over ten different terms—including tear, tear fluid, tear film, lacrimal fluid, and ocular surface fluid—used interchangeably. This variation complicates literature searches and data interpretation. For instance, searching “tear” or “tears” yields over 70,000 results, mostly unrelated to ocular research.
To address this, the Tear Research Network is conducting a Delphi panel to establish internationally standardized terminology guidelines. We are working to define each term and its appropriate context of use. This initiative will improve clarity, enhance consistency and comparability across studies, and make literature searches more efficient, ultimately strengthening research reproducibility.
📌 Full guidelines coming soon!
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