Multiple changes in lens protein composition associated with the CatFr gene in the mouse

Abstract

SUMMARY: The ocular cataracts produced by the dominant Cat^Fr gene in the mouse, Mus musculus, are associated with quantitative changes in the lens proteins (crystallins). The three classes of crystallin are affected differentially in homozygotes. Heterozygotes show a smaller effect. The quantitative levels of crystallin subunits are also affected and these changes are different for each subunit. The overall loss in protein is not readily explicable hi terms of a generalised leakage or a general tendency to insolubilisation. Possible mechanisms for the action of the gene are suggested.