The role of Sox11in vertebrate ocular development

Visual system development involves complex morphogenetic interactions resulting in the formation of a lens, retina, and spherical eye. Disruptions in this process are associated with abnormalities such as microphthalmia, anophthalmia, colobomata (MAC), and pediatric blindness. Dissecting the gene regulatory networks in the developing eye will provide a better understanding of developmental ocular pathology. We are studying the transcription factor Sox11, which we hypothesize is required for proper ocular morphogenesis, lens development, and the differentiation of rod photoreceptors. Our results over the past seven months strongly support this hypothesis; additionally, we have found that Sox11 is required for proper closure of the optic fissure. This project encompasses three Specific Aims: 1. Place sox11 within the context of known genetic pathways that regulate lens and photoreceptor development. 2. Determine the effects of sox11 mis-expression on cell differentiation, cell survival, and cell cycle progression in the lens and retina. 3. Determine whether sox11 is required autonomously or non-cell autonomously during ocular development.