Posterior capsule opacification. An in vitro model
P. J. McDonnell, S. L. Rowen, B. M. Glaser and M. Sato
Posterior capsule opacification results from migration of lens epithelial
cells onto the posterior capsule, where they produce collagen and contract
to cause wrinkling of the capsule. We have designed an in vitro model that
reproduces the process of opacification. Lens capsules removed from
enucleated bovine eyes are placed within specially designed holders,
creating a culture dish with the capsule as its bottom surface. Albino
rabbit lens epithelial cells are then plated on the capsule. These capsules
develop clinical and ultrastructural features of opacification very similar
to those observed in humans. Membranes composed of confluent epithelial
cells closely resemble the cellular membranes observed with specular
microscopy in human patients. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrates
that a membrane several cells thick forms on the capsules. This model
allows careful morphologic, metabolic, and biochemical studies of the
process of opacification and the investigation of therapies designed to
prevent opacification of the posterior capsule.
