Exploring phenotypic diversity of pigmented traits and iris features in Pakistani population

Phenotypic variations of eye color, skin color, and iris surface features
have been well-explored in certain populations. However, there has been
comparatively little research on variations in these features in Pakistani
population. The aim of this study is to discover phenotypic diversity and
correlations of pigmented traits and iris surface features in Punjab and
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province of Pakistan. Digital images of eyes and
skin were examined by investigators to determine color using Fitzpatrick
Phototype Scale. Similarly, iris patterns were characterized by Edward
iris feature software and association studies were conducted through SPSS
program. Intermediate eye color was frequent in KPK (44%) while brown was
higher in Punjab (47%). Contrarily, light to medium brown skin color was
recurring (55%) in Punjab whereas lighter skin color prevailed in KPK
(69%). Furthermore, Fuchs’ crypts were significantly correlated with
contraction furrows in both populations. Likewise, crypts were
significantly associated with Wolfflin nodules and furrows were
significantly related to conjunctival melanosis and pigment spots in KPK
sample set. Based on unique iris patterns, these phenotypic traits would
be helpful for individuals’ discrimination in the population. In future,
there is need to explore genetic associations and functional differences
of these traits.