A comparative biometric analysis indicates Clqtn/5 plays a role in ocular growth

Many people suffer from hyperopia (farsightedness), a condition characterized by refractive error where light is not focused on the retina that causes blurred vision. Most of hyperopia cases result from microphthalmia, a condition resulting in smaller eyes as characterized by reduced axial length; however, the cellular and molecular basis of this condition is poorly understood. This study aims to investigate three genes when mutated are implicated in microphthalmia (Mfrp, Prss56, Adiporl) and to assess a prospective microphthalmia gene,Clqtnf5, at an early developmental timepoint (postnatal day 18. The genes were investigated through ocular biometric measurements of strains carrying mutant alleles of these genes. Measurements included axial length, corneal radius of curvature, and posterior ocular surface area. Our results reveal microphthalmia in all models examined and establishes C 1 qtnf5 as a gene that influences ocular growth at early stages of development.