Abstract:The neural crest represents a dynamic population of embryonic stem cells, playing a pivotal role in the development of the eye. Through interactions with the surrounding neuroectoderm, superficial ectoderm and mesoderm, the neural crest contributes to the formation of numerous ocular structures, encompassing the corneal stroma and endothelium, trabecular meshwork, iris stroma, ciliary muscle, vitreous and choroidal vessels, and Müller cells. Aberrant migration and development of neural crest cells within the eye can instigate a complex series of ocular diseases. Such diseases include anterior segment like Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, Peters anomaly, aniridia, primary congenital glaucoma, and Nail-Patella syndrome. Defects that impact the posterior segment may lead to CHARGE syndrome and Branchio-oculo-facial syndrome. Further, rare neurocristopathies such as Waardenburg syndrome, Treacher-Collins syndrome, and Char syndrome can also present with ocular abnormalities. In this review, we explore the ocular diseases that arise from abnormal neural crest cell development, and delve into the related genes involved in neural crest migration and development. We further discuss how mutations and defects in these genes can precipitate ocular diseases.
