Human capsule epithelial cell degeneration, A LM, SEM and TEM investigation

The degeneration of the capsule epithelium of cataractous lenses has been studied with LM, SEM en TEM with emphasis on TEM. The observed degeneration of the epithelial cells can be described as follows: The cell nucleus becomes picnotic and disintegrates as result of change of the chromatin. Degeneration of the cytoplasm starts with swelling of the mitochondria, coming into existence of filamentous networks and balloon-like bulges of the nucleus. Repelling of the cell nucleus due to a porosity of the plasma membrane. Collapse of the cell due to degeneration of the cell and loss of the cytoplasmic contents, leaving finally only a swollen framework of cell walls.