[Study of physicochemical properties of lens capsule preserved under different conditions]

The role of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the lens capsule in its preservation under different conditions is investigated. The content of LPO products (hydroperoxides and malonic dialdehyde) appreciably increased in the lens capsule after preservation in normal and Ringer's saline for 1 to 6 days at 4 degrees C. These changes were paralleled by a reliable decrease in the content of various SH groups (Superficial, structurally masked protein, and glutathion) and in catalase activity. Preservation of the lens capsule in 1% gentamicin solution almost completely prevented such changes during the first 6 days of storage. Moreover, in model systems gentamicin suppressed the intensity of Fe(2+)-ascorbate-stimulated LPO. Intensification of LPO is believed to play an appreciable role in the structural and functional disorders in the lens capsule during its storage in different media. High antioxidative activity of gentamicin recommends it as an effective preserving agent for clinical purposes.