The Importance of the Interaction Between Ocular Motor Function and Vision During Human Infancy

Annu Rev Vis Sci. 2019 Sep 15:5:201-221. doi: 10.1146/annurev-vision-091718-014741.

Abstract

Numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of imposed abnormal visual experience on the postnatal development of the visual system. These studies have provided fundamental insights into the mechanisms underlying neuroplasticity and its role in clinical care. However, the ocular motor responses of postnatal human infants largely define their visual experience in dynamic three-dimensional environments. Thus, the immature visual system needs to control its own visual experience. This review explores the interaction between the developing motor and sensory/perceptual visual systems, together with its importance in both typical development and the development of forms of strabismus and amblyopia.

Keywords: accommodation; amblyopia; hyperopia; strabismus; vergence; visual development.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accommodation, Ocular / physiology
  • Amblyopia / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Hyperopia / physiopathology
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Ocular Physiological Phenomena
  • Oculomotor Nerve / physiology*
  • Strabismus / physiopathology
  • Vision, Binocular / physiology
  • Vision, Ocular / physiology*
  • Visual Perception / physiology*