Conclusions
Ephrin-A5 is a critical factor that regulates primary vitreous regression.
Methods
Wild-type and ephrin-A5(-/-) eyes were examined at various developmental stages to determine the progression of PHPV. Eye tissue was sectioned and examined by H&E staining. Protein expression and localization was determined through immunohistochemistry. Relative levels of Eph receptors were determined by RT-PCR.
Purpose
Primary vitreous regression is a critical event in mammalian eye development required for proper ocular maturity and unhindered vision. Failure of this event
Results
Ephrin-A5(-/-) animals develop ocular phenotypes representative of PHPV, most notably the presence of a large hyperplastic mass posterior to the lens that remains throughout the lifetime of the animal. The aberrant tissue in these mutant mice consists of residual hyaloid vessels surrounded by pigmented cells of neural crest origin. Labeling with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and detection of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression shows that the mass in ephrin-A5(-/-) animals is mitotically active in embryonic and postnatal stages. Conclusions: Ephrin-A5 is a critical factor that regulates primary vitreous regression.