Circular dichroism spectra have been obtained for albumin, alpha-chymotrypsinogen, collagen, concanavalin A, elastase, hemoglobin, histone f2b, alpha-lactalbumin, lactate dehydrogenase, beta-lactoglobulin, lysozyme, myoglobin, papain, ribonuclease A, and thermolysin in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and dithiothreitol. While all spectra have the shape anticipated for a mixture of random coil and alpha helix, the intensities differ markedly ([theta]222 ranges from --1400 to --15 000 deg cm2/dmol). The variation in the circular dichroism can be quantitatively explained by a model which assumes that the arginyl, histidyl, and lysyl residues have an enhanced probability of propagating a helical segment in the presence of the detergent. The model also permits the computation of dimensional properties (unperturbed end-to-end distance and radius of gyration) for polypeptides of known amino acid sequence. Such computations have been performed for 67 proteins. The computed dimensions are compatible with experimental values and with the molecular weight dependence of the transport properties of the complexes. Furthermore, the model can account for the abnormal transport properties of the sodium dodecyl sulfate complexes formed by ribonuclease A, collagen fragments, and histones f2a1, f2a2, f2b, and f3. Even though some of the protein--sodium dodecyl sulfate complexes have helical contents as high as 50%, their overall conformation more closely approximates that of a random coil than a rod.

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The immunotoxin was well tolerated and was effective in reducing PCO for up to 24 months after cataract surgery. Although these preliminary results are encouraging, a larger study is underway to determine whether the reduction in PCO by the immunotoxin decreases the need for Nd:YAG capsulotomy.

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common complication following primary cataract surgery. Advances in intraocular lens (IOL) designs that have reduced the amount of PCO following surgery have been made. The understanding of how the IOL design effects PCO has also advanced. Lenses that provide a mechanical barrier between it and the posterior lens capsule seem to inhibit PCO to a greater degree. Intracapsular rings are now being explored to test and enhance this barrier effect. Major advances in the elimination of lens epithelial cells at the time of surgery especially by pharmacologic means have also been made. An immunotoxin specific for human lens epithelial cells shows promise and is under latter phase clinical development.

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