The genetics of strabismus
- 1Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11–43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK
- 2Moorfields Eye Hospital, City Road, London, EC1V 2PD, UK
- Correspondence to: Professor Anthony T Moore Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11–43 Bath Street, London, EC1V 9EL, UK; tony.mooreucl.ac.uk
- Received 11 April 2004
- Accepted 12 May 2004
Abstract
Strabismus (misalignment of the eyes; also known as “squint”) comprises a common heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by a constant or intermittent ocular deviation often associated with amblyopia (uniocular failure of normal visual development) and reduced or absent binocular vision. The associated poor cosmetic appearance may also interfere with social and psychological development. Extensive twin and family studies suggest a significant genetic component to the aetiology of strabismus. The complexity of the molecular basis of strabismus is now beginning to be elucidated with the identification of genetic loci and disease causing genes. Currently greater insights have been gained into the incomitant subtype (differing magnitude of ocular misalignment according to direction of gaze), whereas less is known about the pathogenesis of the more common childhood concomitant strabismus. It is hoped that a greater understanding of the molecular genetics of these disorders will lead to improved knowledge of disease mechanisms and ultimately to more effective treatment. The aim of this paper is to review current knowledge of the molecular genetics of both incomitant and concomitant strabismus.
- AD, autosomal dominant
- AR, autosomal recessive
- CFEOM, congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles
- CPEO, chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia
- DS, Duane syndrome
- KSS, Kearns-Sayre syndrome
- MELAS, mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes
- MIDD, maternally inherited diabetes and deafness
- mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA
Footnotes
-
Conflict of interest: none declared.
