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Lensfibre degeneration at cataract lenses

A LM, SEM and TEM Investigation

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Abstract

The degeneration process of lensfibres in a cataractous lens, described as the biochemical changes of a part of the lensproteins, can be characterised morphologically as follows: Emulsification of a part of the lensfibre-mass and the development of open spaces between the lensfibres with the formation of vacuoles (spherical structures) with a granular or a compact contents with high contrast, which is squeezed into the intercellular space. Degeneration of the ball & socket system interdigitation and microvilli domain system and the formation of almost empty rectangular structures in somewhat radial array. Balloon-like bulging of the cytoplasm of the lenscell, degeneration of the cytoplasm membrane and visualisation of a micro-filamentous network with enclosed cell organelles.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory for Histology & Cell Biology, University of Groningen, Oostersingel 69/1, 9713 EZ, Groningen, The Netherlands

    D. Kalicharan & W. L. Jongebloed

  2. Eye-clinic, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands

    J. G. F. Worst

Authors
  1. D. Kalicharan
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  2. W. L. Jongebloed
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  3. J. G. F. Worst
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Kalicharan, D., Jongebloed, W.L. & Worst, J.G.F. Lensfibre degeneration at cataract lenses. Doc Ophthalmol 85, 77–85 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01268103

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01268103

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