Reduced Glutathione, Sodium, Potassium and Calcium Levels in the Lens Associated with Late Onset Hereditary Cataract of UPL Rats

Abstract

To investigate mechanisms of cataract development in the late onset hereditary cataract of the UPL rat, lens reduced glutathione (GSH), sodium, potassium and calcium levels were determined at each stage of cataract development. Lenses of the UPL rat were delivered at various age. GSH and cation levels were measured by HPLC and atomic absorption methods, respectively. The GSH level was decreased from early stage of cataract development, and oxidative damage to the lens was suggested. In addition, the sodium/potassium ratio and calcium levels were increased at final stage of cataract development. In conclusion, it was suggested that disturbance in cation pumps and/or membrane function were caused by oxidative damage leading to swelling of lens and aggregation of lens proteins, and finally mature cataract was developed.