Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Ocular Apoptosis in Zebrafish<i>gdf6a</i>Mutants

Abstract

gdf6a(-/-)-induced apoptosis is characterized by the involvement of intrinsic apoptotic pathways, p38 MAP kinases, and dysregulated smad expression. Modulation of key mediators can inhibit retinal apoptosis offering potential avenues of therapy. However, the efficacy of pharmacomodulation in improvement of visual function needs to be further examined.