Topical applications of different doses of α-MSH ameliorated the values of Schirmer’s test and BUT along the experimental time course (Fig. 1A,B), the α-MSH’s improvements on tear secretion and tear film stability in the scopolamine-induced dry eye rats are consistent with its promotion on lachrimal gland secretion in vitro18, 26. This evidence concerns the gene STAMBP and dry eye syndrome.