RT-qPCR analysis revealed a significant decrease in osteoblast gene markers (Fig. 5), including alkaline phosphatase (Alp), type 1 collagen (Col1), Osterix, runx-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2; a transcription factor that is important for osteoblast differentiation), osteocalcin (Ocn, a terminal osteoblast marker gene), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (Igf1), in SCD-H2O compared with Ctrl-H2O. Abx treatment significantly increased Col1 expression in both genotypes but significantly increased Runx2 and Igf1 mRNA expression only in SCD mice. Here, IGF1 is linked to Schnyder corneal dystrophy.