Effects of 5-fluorouracil on cultured rabbit lens epithelial cells.

The effects of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on growth and F-actin structure were investigated in cultured rabbit lens epithelial cells. A dose-inhibition study showed that for its antiproliferative effect on cells, the ID50 of 5-FU is 0.6 mg/l. This is similar to the value reported for subconjunctival fibroblasts and corneal epithelial cells. 5-FU does not affect the F-actin structure of the cells. Although cataract formation by 5-FU has not been reported, susceptibility of the lens epithelial cells to 5-FU should be considered when treating glaucoma patients with this drug.