Abstract
To identify initial changes and progression of late onset cataract of UPL (Upjohn Pharmaceuticals Limited) rat, cataractous lenses were evaluated ophthalmoscopically, histologically, and by Raman spectroscopy. At 2 to 4 weeks of age, intracellular vacuoles in the ends of the lens fibers and stratified epithelial cells were observed in the anterior suture of the lens. At 4 to 7 weeks of age, stratified epithelial cells and large vacuoles in lens fibers were present in the equator region. In the posterior cortex, small vacuoles were observed. Raman spectroscopic measurement indicated an increase in water content and the lens nucleus shift to the anterior. At approximately 7 weeks of age, mature cataracts, including rupture and liquefaction of lens fibers in the entire lens cortex, were present. In conclusion, the initial changes were observed in lens fibers at the anterior suture. Hydration of the posterior cortex might be correlated with lens opacification.
