The research of visual plasticity related genes in amblyopia

Some genes such as anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, Bax), immediate early genes (c-jun, c-fos), visual plasticity neurotransmitter related genes (N- methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor, NMDAR-1 subunit gene), visual plasticity neurotrophic factors related genes (Neuritin mRNA, GDNF mRNA, BDNF mRNA, GAP-43 mRNA), PTPσmRNA, β-catenin mRNA and so on may be closely related to the onset of amblyopia. Bcl-2 and Bax may participate in the pathogenesis of amblyopia by regulating the survival of the related neurons in the visual system. C-jun and c-fos can alter the transcriptional activity of the target gene and regulate the functional state of the cortical neurons after entering the nucleus of neurons. NMDAR-1 subunit gene of the aspartate receptor is located in the postsynaptic membrane, which regulates the plasticity of the synapses in the visual cortex by regulating the expression level of different subunits. The neuritin mRNA encodes a kind of active molecule, which can promote the growth of dendrites and regulate the visual system. GDNF mRNA exists in the visual cortex and lateral geniculate body, which protects and repairs neurons after various injuries. It can regulate visual development by influencing the transcription of the normal development process of the visual system. BDNF mRNA regulates the plasticity of synaptic development in nervous system. The PTPσmRNA and β-catenin mRNA are involved in the termination of the critical stage of visual cortex and the process of plasticity reactivation in the visual cortex of adult rats.(Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2018, 42: 163-168) Key words: amblyopia; visual plasticity; antiapoptotic gene; immediate early gene