African mole rats as models for regressive evolution of the eye

Darkness-adapted mammals with reduced eyes can serve as valuable models for the study of regressive evolution, as well as for research into the genetic and developmental processes underlying the "degeneration" of the eye. The aim of this work was to characterize two African mole rate species (Heterocephalus glaber and Bathyergus suillus) and explore their potential use as novel models for evolutionary developmental eye research. To this end, this histological structure of the adult eye, the development of the eye and the expression of several molecular markers were investigated. The important abnormal features noted were: the abnormal shape and nuclear distribution in the lens, the extremely large ciliary body and delay in the formation of the anterior chamber compared to other ocular structures.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Human Biology

Year dc:date.issued

2006

Author dc:creator

• Nikitina, Natalya

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Kidson, Sue H

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/3187

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/3187