Genotype, Age, Genetic Background, and Sex Influence Epha2-Related Cataract Development in Mice.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Age-related cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Variants in the EPHA2 gene increase the disease risk, and its knockout in mice causes cataract. We investigated whether age, sex, and genetic background, risk factors for age-related cataract, and Epha2 genotype influence Epha2-related cataract development in mice.

Methods

Cataract development was monitored in Epha2+/+, Epha2+/-, and Epha2-/- mice (Epha2Gt(KST085)Byg) on C57BL/6J and FVB:C57BL/6J (50:50) backgrounds. Cellular architecture of lenses, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and redox state were determined using histological, molecular, and analytical techniques.

Results

Epha2-/- and Epha2+/- mice on C57BL/6J background developed severe cortical cataracts by 18 and 38 weeks of age, resp

SUBMITTER: Dave A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8431977 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature