Genes shed light on moles’ condition of ‘blindness’

The “defects” result from genetic triggers that occur in the embryo and are not, as some have thought, a degenerative condition that starts in adulthood, they said. Fibres that develop into the moles’ lens start to grow normally but are not completed as a result of interference of two genes called PAX6 and FOXE3. Other genes that are central to eye development also behave abnormally, the researchers found. Under Darwinian theory, moles and other subterranean animals forego good vision in order to accentuate sensitivity to vibrations and smell that help them survive. The study was carried out on embryos of the Iberian mole, Talpa occidentalis, which unlike other mole species has permanently closed eyes.

SHARE CLOSE
Blogger		Google+
Live Journal		Plurk
Stumble Upon

Tweet

	PREVIOUS ARTICLE
	Laser treatment helps sun-damaged skin: study

NEXT ARTICLE
WHO keeps tabs on smokers’ lifespans with ‘death clock’

Write a Comment

Terms

Enter your comments - 3000 characters max

Type in image code

 Receive China Post promos
 Respond to this email

Submit