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Published on: October 6, 2014
Eyelid development, fusion and subsequent reopening in the mouse
G S Findlater1, R D McDougall, M H Kaufman
1Department of Anatomy, University Medical School, Edinburgh, UK.
Journal of Anatomy
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Mouse eyelid development involves critical fusion events from embryonic stages to postnatal days. Histology and electron microscopy reveal rapid epithelial changes, keratinization, and differentiation leading to mature eyelid structures.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Ophthalmology
- Mammalian embryology
Background:
- Eyelid development is crucial for eye protection and function.
- Understanding the precise timing and cellular mechanisms is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the key events in mouse eyelid development.
- To detail the morphological changes from embryonic to postnatal stages.
Main Methods:
- Conventional histology was employed.
- Scanning electron microscopy was utilized.
- Observations spanned from 15.5 days postcoitum to 12 days after birth.
Main Results:
- Eyelid fusion occurs within 24 hours around 15.5 days postcoitum.
- Periderm cells fill the fusion gap, forming a transient excrescence.
- Keratinization begins around 17.5 days postcoitum and progresses.
- Epidermal differentiation, including stratum granulosum, and hair follicle development are observed postnatally.
- Surface and conjunctival indentations form by 10 days after birth.
Conclusions:
- Mouse eyelid development is a dynamic process involving rapid fusion and differentiation.
- The study provides a detailed timeline of morphological changes during eyelid formation.
- These findings contribute to the understanding of craniofacial development.
