Iris and retina: fully genetically determined?

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In summary, the conversation discusses two biometric techniques, iris recognition and retinal scan, and whether the patterns in these techniques are the same in identical twins. After further research, it is concluded that these patterns are not the same in identical twins, indicating that they are not completely genetically determined. The conversation also mentions a video about unique fingerprints and how similar mechanisms may affect the growth of eyes.
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nomadreid
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TL;DR Summary
The capillary arrangement in the retina that is used for the retina identification scans, and the pattern of the iris used for iris identification scan: apart from disorders, are they determined at least partly by the environment (say, in the womb, like fingerprints) or fully determined by genetics (like eye colour)?
I am posing two questions, one for each of two biometric techniques
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iris_recognition
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retinal_scan
Attempting to find the answer to the question posed in the Summary, I only get articles about hereditary eye disorders.
I am referring to the normal cases... obviously either one of these may be altered by a disorder or disease or an accident.
 
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Are these patterns the same in identical twins?
I suspect not.
If not, they are not completely genetically determined since identical twins have the same genetics.
 
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Watch this brief and delightful video from MinuteEarth to learn more about what makes your fingerprints unique. It is reasonable to believe that similar mechanisms would affect the way your eyes grow.
Looking again at your first post, you've probably seen it.
 
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FAQ: Iris and retina: fully genetically determined?

What is the role of genetics in determining the iris and retina?

The iris and retina are both structures in the eye that are fully genetically determined. This means that the genes inherited from our parents play a significant role in determining the color and pattern of the iris, as well as the function and structure of the retina.

How do genes influence the color of the iris?

The color of the iris is determined by the amount and distribution of melanin, a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes. The genes responsible for producing melanin are inherited from our parents, and variations in these genes can result in different shades of eye color.

Can environmental factors affect the development of the iris and retina?

While genetics play a major role in the development of the iris and retina, environmental factors such as exposure to UV light or certain chemicals can also influence their development. However, these external factors are not as significant as genetic factors in determining the characteristics of the iris and retina.

Are there any genetic disorders that affect the iris and retina?

Yes, there are several genetic disorders that can affect the development and function of the iris and retina. These include conditions like albinism, which affects the production of melanin and can result in very light or pale eye color, and retinitis pigmentosa, which causes degeneration of the retina and can lead to vision loss.

Can the genetics of the iris and retina be altered?

While there is currently no way to change the genes that determine the characteristics of the iris and retina, advances in gene therapy and genetic engineering may one day make it possible to alter these traits. However, there are ethical considerations and potential risks associated with altering the genetics of any organism.

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