[Histochemical study of human lens capsule--immunohistochemical analysis of collagen]

We studied the presence of different types of collagen (I, III, IV, V) in 31 human lens capsule specimens by use of enzyme labeled antibody (indirect method) and tried to quantify them by microspectrophotometry. We also quantified the total collagen content of lining layer and crust layer by microspectrophotometry in specimens stained by the van Gieson method. The presence of types I, III, IV and V collagen was demonstrated in the lens capsule and total collagen content in the lining layer was significantly richer than in the crust layer. Total collagen content tended to decrease with age over 60 and with the advance of lens opacity. Type V collagen increased more than type IV collagen after 60 years of age. These results suggest that the collagen in the lens capsule varies quantitatively and qualitatively with age and lens opacity.