As a preclinical contract research service provider, Ace Therapeutics is dedicated to the development of Foxc1 mutant mouse models. Leveraging our expertise in the field of glaucoma, we provide researchers with powerful tools to investigate the mechanisms of glaucoma and facilitate the exploration of innovative therapeutic strategies.
The Role of FOXC1 in Glaucoma Pathogenesis
FOXC1 is a transcription factor gene that plays a critical role in the anterior segment development of the human eye. Mutations and copy number variations in FOXC1 cause developmental disorders like Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS), strongly predisposing to glaucoma. It has been found that haploinsufficiency or increased dosage of FOXC1 can disrupt the normal development of the anterior chamber, affecting the formation and function of ocular drainage structures and potentially leading to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and glaucoma.
Fig. 1 Clinical phenotypes in Foxc1 mutant mice. (Smith R S, et al., 2000)
Explore Our Foxc1 Mutant Mouse Models of Glaucoma
Recognizing the indispensable value of relevant animal models in glaucoma research, Ace Therapeutics offers custom Foxc1 mutant mouse models to meet diverse research needs.
| Model Types | Our Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Conventional Foxc1 knockout models | We can generate Foxc1 heterozygous knockout mice (Foxc1+/- mice) to study the effects of haploinsufficiency of FOXC1, a common cause of human anterior segment disorders and glaucoma. |
| Precise Foxc1 point mutation models | Our experts can develop mouse models carrying the homologous mutation in the murine Foxc1 gene to support researchers studying the functional consequences of specific FOXC1 missense, nonsense, or frameshift mutations associated with human glaucoma. |
| Foxc1 transgenic models | To study the effects of FOXC1 overexpression or investigate the impact of specific disease-associated FOXC1 mutations, we can generate transgenic mouse models that either overexpress the wild-type gene or express mutant FOXC1 variants. |
Foxc1 Mutant Mouse Model Evaluation Services
We offer a wide range of services, from model development to follow-up evaluation. Our comprehensive services allow our clients to gain a thorough understanding of FOXC1-related glaucoma mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Ocular Phenotype Assessment
Use non-invasive examinations (slit-lamp biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy) to assess anterior chamber morphology, iris structure, pupil shape, and lens clarity.
IOP Measurement
Measure IOP to determine whether the Foxc1 mutant mice exhibit elevated IOP associated with glaucoma.
Anterior Segment Imaging
Employ optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) to visualize and quantify anterior chamber angle structures, including the trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canal (SC).
Our custom Foxc1 mutant mouse models serve as valuable platforms for evaluating the efficacy and safety of potential therapeutic agents for glaucoma. Acting as a collaborative partner, Ace Therapeutics provides expert guidance and support throughout the research project. If you are interested in our services or require more detailed information, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Smith R S, et al. Haploinsufficiency of the transcription factors Foxc1 and FOXC2 results in aberrant ocular development. Hum Mol Genet, 2000, 9(7): 1021-1032.
- Gauthier A C and Wiggs J L. Childhood Glaucoma Genes and Phenotypes: Focus on FOXC1 mutations causing anterior segment dysgenesis and hearing loss. Exp Eye Res, 2020, 190: 107893.