Histology of the epithelium of the normal and cataractous lens.

Compared with the normal lens, the cataractous lens is characterized by morphological and distribution anomalies of the epithelial cells. At the electron microscope an enlargement of the intercellular spaces and large intercellular, as well as intracellular, vacuoles are seen. An important development of the lysosomal system and of the endoplasmic reticulum is also observed.