Mutation in a Novel Connexin-like Gene ( <i>Gjf1</i> ) in the Mouse Affects Early Lens Development and Causes a Variable Small-Eye Phenotype

Abstract

The mutated mouse gene belongs to the family of connexin-encoding genes (gene symbols Gja-Gje). Together with its rat and human homologues, it defines a new subgroup, referred to as Gjf1. The mouse mutant described herein offers a new functional candidate gene for microphthalmia-related disorders at the corresponding locus on human chromosome 6, area q24.