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Researchers identify shared genes in myopia, axial length

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There may be a common genetic thread that links axial length and myopia, according to a large study by researchers in Australia.

Mohamed Dirani, BOrth(Hons), OphthSc(Hons), and colleagues evaluated the correlation between axial length and refraction among a total of 1,224 twins (612 pairs) registered in the Australian Twin Registry who participated in the GEM (Genes in myopia) twin study. Each twin completed a standardized questionnaire and underwent axial length and dilated objective refraction examinations.

Using the sex limitation genetic model, which tested additive genetic, dominant genetic and unique environmental factors, the investigators identified a negative correlation between axial length and refraction (P < .01).

Overall, approximately 50% of the variation in spherical equivalence in both men and women was attributed to genetic factors influencing axial length, the authors noted.

"The GEM twin study has provided a basis and direction for future research into identifying the gene(s) in axial length that will ultimately improve our understanding of the etiology of refractive error, particularly myopia," the study authors said in the October issue of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.