An improved procedure for fixation and embedding of whole, intact lens tissue for light microscopy

Fixation and embedding of whole, intact lens tissue are often difficult. During studies of morphologic changes in various experimentally induced cataracts, an improved procedure was developed, utilizing isomolar fixative and water-soluble embedding medium (glycol methacrylate), while avoiding dehydration with organic solvents. Different rat and human cataractous lenses were processed in toto using this method, and the results were uniformly good upon light microscopic evaluation. The potential of this fixation-embedding procedure for lens research is discussed.