, Oct. 31 -- Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have discovered an unexpected role of a vitamin A derivative in the development of human vision, offering new insights into how the eye forms the specialised cells responsible for sharp central sight.

The study reveals that retinoic acid, a molecule produced from vitamin A, works alongside thyroid hormones to shape the development of the retina, challenging a scientific theory that has remained influential for nearly three decades.

Published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research suggests that certain cells initially sensitive to blue light can transform into cells that detect red and green light during fetal development.

The findings could improv...