A mutation in the connexin 50 (Cx50) gene is a candidate for the No2 mouse cataract.

PURPOSE

The No2 cataractous mouse mutant displays a bilateral, congenital, hereditary nuclear opacity of the ocular lens. The aim of this work was to identify and subsequently screen an optimal candidate gene for a mutation correlated and consistent with the observed phenotype.

METHODS

The No2 cataract was mapped in relation to genes and microsatellite markers by crossing to the wild mouse strain Mus spretus and then backcrossing to the inbred strain C3H/ HeH. The Cx50 (MP70) protein coding region and flanking sequences were amplified from normal parental as well as heterozygous and homozygous mutant genomic DNAs. These PCR products were then sequenced directly. Sequence data was corroborated by restriction analysis of PCR products.

RESULTS

Mapping of the No2 cataract placed it in the vicinity of Gja8, the gene encoding connexin 50 (MP70), a major component of lens fiber gap junctions. Amplification and subsequent sequencing of the Cx50 protein coding regions revealed a single A-->C transversion within codon 47. This sequence change resulted in the creation of an HhaI restriction endonuclease restriction site, allowing for corroboration of the sequence data via restriction analysis using this enzyme. The sequence alteration is also predicted to result in the nonconservative substitution of alanine (Ala) for the normally encoded aspartic acid (Asp) at this position within the polypeptide.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified mutation in Gja8 is both correlated and consistent with the cataract observed in the No2 mouse mutant, making it an ideal candidate for the cataract. This study provides the first evidence that a mutation in a lens connexin can result in congenital hereditary cataract, highlighting the importance of lens connexins in maintaining lens transparency.