Genetics and development of ocular oxidases in the mouse: evidence for a new locus (Eox-l) closely linked with the aldehyde oxidase loci on chromosome 1

Summary. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) and histochemical techniques were used to examine the genetics, postnatal development and biochemical properties of ocular oxidases (EOXs) among inbred strains of mice. The designation as EOX was made on a provisional basis, since the 'natural' substrate(s) for this enzyme have not been identified. Five major forms were resolved from adult animals, which exhibited high activity in murine lens and low activity in the cornea. An additional ocular oxidase was observed in neonatal animals. Genetic analyses demonstrated that one of these enzymes (EOX-1) is encoded by a locus (Eox-1) which is closely linked with, but distinct from, the aldehyde oxidase (Aox) gene complex on chromosome one of the mouse. These results support the proposal that ocular oxidases are distinct from the major liver AOXs in this organism.