Abstract

Spontaneous cataracts have been identified in the lenses of animals across a phylogenetically wide range of species. This can be a source of insights and innovation for human health professionals, but many persons may lack awareness of it. By providing a phylogenetic survey and analysis of species with cataract vulnerability, this paper demonstrates how a broad comparative perspective can provide critical information about environmental hazards to human visual health and can spark potential innovations in the prevention and treatment of cataracts in humans. Perspectives. Review and synthesis of selected literature with interpretation and perspective. We found 273 recorded cases of spontaneously occurring cataracts in 113 species of birds, 83 species of mammals, 30 species of actinopterygii fish, 10 species of amphibians, 6 species of reptiles, and 1 species of cephalopod. A phylogenetically wide range of species, including many living in and around human environments, are vulnerable to cataracts. These animals may serve as sentinels for human visual health. Variation in cataract vulnerability across species may also facilitate the identification of resistance-conferring physiologies, leading to accelerated innovation in the prevention and treatment of cataracts in humans.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.