[Fluorescein movement in a transparent lens]

Fluorescein movements in the lens laminae of isolated porcine eyes were examined by biomicroscopy. The stain disseminated in two directions: from the lens nucleus to capsules and fluorescein release into the intraocular fluid and from the outer laminae of the equatorial zone to the nucleus. Lecozyme, a proteolytic agent, accelerated fluorescein movement in both directions. The method suggested by the authors permits an objective assessment of fluorescein movement in the lens, which appears to reflect the processes of extracellular fluid ultrafiltration in the lens. The data evidence the possibility of effecting the extracellular intralenticular fluid microcirculation by proteolytic enzymes. The suggested technique may be useful in studies of cataract pathogenesis and of anticataract action of various drugs.