ABSTRACT
Connective tissue is ubiquitous in the body in its various forms, including the supporting and connecting fabric in soft tissues, the biomechanically important structures in the form of ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bones, and the vascular system conduits necessary for transport of the blood constituents. Affected animals have survived to ages of 8 years or greater without serious complications from the connective tissue defect, providing that their environment and interaction with other animals is carefully monitored to reduce chances of skin lacerations. Deficiencies of some cofactors necessary for lysyl hydroxylase activity, especially ascorbic acid, may result in connective tissue alterations. The connective tissue changes consist of osteoporosis, spontaneous fractures, unstable joints, and aneurysms with sudden rupture of large vessels, including the aorta. The connective tissue in the sclera is thin, and scleras appear blue as a result of the choroid pigment showing through the thinned sclera.
