Quantitative analysis of the lens cell microstructure in selenite cataract using a two-dimensional Fourier analysis.

Using two-dimensional (2-D) Fourier methods, we analysed the cellular microstructure of three rat lenses: normal transparent, selenite-induced cataractous and selenite-treated plus a phase separation inhibitor (PSI) to prevent cataract. 2-D Fourier analysis of electron micrographs of the lens cells quantified the dimensions of the spatial fluctuations in electron density of the lens cell microstructure. The 2-D Fourier spectra of the transparent normal and PSI-treated lens cells were remarkably similar while those of the opaque selenite-treated lens cells were dramatically different. In the opaque cells the contributions of large Fourier components (larger than half the wavelength of light) in the 2-D Fourier spectra were much greater than in the transparent cells. The results of the 2-D Fourier analysis of electron micrographs are consistent with the theory of transparency of the eye.