Saturday, April 8, 2017

Fish Eyes Help Human Blindness

Image result for human eyesImage result for fish eyes
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-04/oios-fet040517.php

        Researchers have discovered a possible cure for congenital blindness and it is all due to the Zebrafish. One of the most popular and widespread causes of child blindness is Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). This syndrome is genetically transmitted to the child if both parents contain at least one of the improper copies of the gene involved in eye development. 
       It was discovered that Zebrafish have a very similar gene that leads to blindness as well. The Aipl1b gene is important in both visual functions and the the maintenance of core photoreceptors. Without this gene the fish are unable to detect light and during development they eventually lose sight.It is this gene that is being studied and compared to humans. Humans have a single gene, Aipl, that acts in the same manner.  Researchers are very close to understanding this gene and if they are able to prevent blindness in the fish then they should be able to find a way to prevent blindness in humans. This is a valuable discovery that could help so many people in the near future.

2 comments:

  1. This is such an interesting discovery. The fact that a fish, out of all things, have the potential cure for human blindness is very unique. It's very exciting to see how this may change the future.

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  2. I think that this is a very interesting article. I would not have thought that another organism could help and assist with the cure for human blindness.

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