Apoptotic and Proliferative Defects Characterize Ocular Development in a Microphthalmic BMP Model

Abstract

These data support a model whereby the gdf6a(-/-)-induced microphthalmia is based on early regulation of retinal progenitor cell number, and later by regulation of proliferation in the ciliary marginal zone. Foxi genes represent downstream effectors of Gdf6a function in the CMZ required for eye size determination.