To report the PAX6 mutations and clinical features in Korean aniridia patients.

Genomic DNA was isolated from 12 aniridia patients and 5 normal controls. The coding regions of the PAX6 gene were analyzed by direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products. The relationship between the mutational types and the ophthalmic findings from medical records was determined.

Mutation analysis demonstrated seven different types of mutations, five of which have not previously been reported. Notably, these mutations were confined to PD and LNK in the PAX6 gene. Although R44X and W156X were recurrent mutations, novel mutations included G18R, IVS6+1insG, A139P, A139A, and G141G. Glaucoma was found in five (42%, adult patients 30 years or older) of twelve patients, of whom four were male.

This is the first report to identify the PAX6 gene mutations in Korean aniridia patients. Our limited data show that glaucoma was more prevalent in male and adult patients. Moreover, a patient's age along with the PAX6 genotype might be a factor related to glaucoma in aniridia patients.