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Published on: April 2, 2021
[Studies of genetic polymorphism in retinopathy of prematurity]
Wei-wei Li1, Sui-lian Zheng, Ming-guang Shi
1Department of Ophthalmology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou 325027, China.
Insights
Genetic factors may influence retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a serious eye condition in premature infants. This review explores genes potentially linked to ROP development and varying outcomes across populations.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Neonatology
Context:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of vision impairment in premature infants.
- ROP incidence and treatment outcomes show variability across different ethnicities and geographic locations.
- This variability suggests a potential role for genetic predisposition in ROP development.
Purpose:
- To review and synthesize current research on genetic factors implicated in retinopathy of prematurity.
- To identify specific genes that may contribute to the occurrence and severity of ROP.
- To provide a foundation for understanding the genetic basis of ROP.
Summary:
- This paper examines the potential genetic underpinnings of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- It reviews several candidate genes suggested by recent studies to play a role in ROP pathogenesis.
- The review highlights the need to consider genetic influences alongside environmental factors in ROP research.
Impact:
- Understanding the genetic basis of ROP can lead to more personalized risk assessment for premature infants.
- Identifying key genes may pave the way for novel therapeutic targets and improved ROP management strategies.
- This knowledge can contribute to reducing the burden of vision loss associated with ROP globally.
Abstract:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative disease that happened in preterm infants with low gestational age and birth weight. Recently, many studies suggested that the incidence of ROP and the results of same clinical intervention vary between different races and countries. It seems that ROP may relate with genetic factors. Several genes are suggested to play a possible role in the occurrence of ROP. This paper reviews these related genes.
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