Popis: |
Spectral characteristics are presented for intact normal and cataractous human lenses. By comparison with healthy intact lenses, no new spectral features (and therefore pigmentous species) are observed in brunescent cataract. However, in this cataract, a buildup in the components giving rise to high wavelength absorption (400–500 nm) is observed relative to that at lower wavelengths (∼ 300 nm). A model of protein tryptophan depletion via oxidation, resulting in protein pigmentation is considered, based on spectral evidence. |