Detection of bityrosine in cataractous human lens protein

Bityrosine was isolated from the insoluble protein of human cataractous lenses. Identification was based on correspondence with synthetic bityrosine with respect to chromatography, fluorescence, and ultraviolet and mass spectra. It is suggested that the compound may form cross-links with polypeptide chains in old and cataractous lenses, causing significant alteration in native protein structure.