COPPER-ION-CATALYZED VITREOUS LIQUEFACTION IN-VIVO

To investigate copper-ion (Cu2+)-catalyzed vitreous liquefaction in vi vo, Cu2+ solution (10 mu mol) was injected into the vitreous cavity of rabbits. At 24 h after the injection, the gel and liquid vitreous wer e weighed, and the percent of vitreous liquefaction was calculated. Cu 2+ injection resulted in liquefaction of 58% of the vitreous, although control eyes had 12% liquefaction (p < 0.01). The vitreous liquefacti on was more pronounced in the presence of exogenous ascorbic acid. How ever, the addition of mannitol, a hydroxyl-radical-specific scavenger, significantly suppressed the Cu2+-catalyzed vitreous liquefaction. Th e free radicals generated by the Cu2+- catalyzed oxidation system may cause vitreous liquefaction in vivo.