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Physiological properties of the normal lens

R T Mathias¹, J L Rae, G J Baldo

¹Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York, Stony Brook, USA.

Physiological Reviews

|January 1, 1997

Summary

The eye's lens generates a unique circulating electrical current, crucial for maintaining vision clarity. This current, driven by ion pumps and directed by gap junctions, may create an internal circulatory system for the avascular lens.

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Physiology
Cell Biology

Background:

The lens, an avascular eye organ, has an asymmetric cellular structure.
Historically, transport between aqueous and vitreous humors was assumed due to this asymmetry.
Previous studies using Ussing chambers suggested translens current, but lacked in-vivo context.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the physiological electrical current within the intact eye lens.
To identify factors driving and directing this circulating current.
To propose a model explaining the current's generation and its role in lens function.

Main Methods:

Utilized the vibrating probe technique to measure surface current densities on a free-standing lens.
Reviewed the properties and spatial distribution of lens Na+/K+ pumps, ion channels, and gap junctions.
Developed a model based on electromotive potential differences and gap junction distribution.

Main Results:

Observed significantly larger current densities than previously measured, circulating rather than crossing the lens.
Identified inward currents at the poles and outward currents at the equator.
The proposed model quantitatively predicted observed currents and suggested fluid movement patterns.

Conclusions:

The circulating current is a key physiological property of the normal lens, essential for clarity.
A model involving transmembrane potential differences and gap junction distribution explains the current.
Speculated that this current facilitates an internal circulatory system for the avascular lens.

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