Liskova, P.;
(2009)
Molecular genetic study of inherited corneal disorders.
Doctoral thesis , UCL (University College London).
Abstract
The inherited corneal diseases form a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders. They include the various types of progressive corneal dystrophies as well as some corneal structural abnormalities for which there is thought to be a genetic basis. These conditions are distinct from the corneal degenerations that result solely from aging or environmental effects. In this thesis I have concentrated on some selected inherited disorders. To try to improve our understanding of the disease mechanisms I have phenotyped affected families, performed candidate gene screening, and made genotype-phenotype correlations. I have collected the largest cohort of families with keratoconus reported to date and probands were screened for mutations in the VSX1 gene previously reported to be associated with this disorder. No disease-causing mutations were identified confirming that this gene only plays a very minor role in the pathogenesis of keratoconus. In a white British family with cornea plana the c.740A>G mutation within the KERA gene was identified and evidence was sought for a common founder with previously reported Finnish patients with cornea plana. One novel mutation was found and common founder in some of the cases was suggested. Disease-causing changes were found in seven Czech families with anterior and stromal corneal dystrophies known to be associated with the TGFBI gene and, of great interest, was a novel phenotype in a family with a p.H626P change. A set of Czech families with macular corneal dystrophy was screened for mutations in the CHST6 gene. In one British family with early-onset Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy we demonstrated a previously reported p.L450W mutation in the COL8A2 gene. Finally, by screening all three known genes implicated in posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy four novel mutations were identified in the ZEB1 gene which provides additional evidence for the genetic heterogeneity of this disorder.
| Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Title: | Molecular genetic study of inherited corneal disorders |
| Language: | English |
| Additional information: | Authorisation for digitisation not received |
| UCL classification: | UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences > Institute of Ophthalmology |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/18007 |
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