Epha2 and Efna5 participate in lens cell pattern-formation.

ABSTRACT: Ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EPHA2) and one of its ligands, ephrin-A5 (EFNA5), have been associated with loss of eye lens transparency, or cataract, - an important cause of visual impairment. Here we show that mice functionally lacking EPHA2 (Epha2-null), EFNA5 (Efna5-null), or both receptor and ligand (Epha2/Efna5-null) consistently develop mostly transparent lenses with an internal refractive disturbance and a grossly disturbed cellular architecture. In situ hybridization localized Epha2 and Efna5 transcripts to lens epithelial cells and nascent fiber cells at the lens equator. In vivo labeling of Epha2-null lenses with a thymidine analog detected a significant decrease in lens epithelial cell proliferation within the germinative zone resulting in impaired early lens growth. Ex vivo imaging

SUBMITTER: Zhou Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6287607 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jul - Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature