The findings strongly suggest that whitening of the hydrophobic acrylic IOL was due to trace water molecules that infiltrate the optic. Within the 3-dimensional network of the polymeric lens material, the molecules are too small to form observable voids but can form water aggregates of sufficient size to scatter visible light, causing opacification (ie, whitening).

A simple IOL culture system was useful for the evaluation of the effects of SPARC and TGF-beta2 on PCO in vitro. The action of TGF-beta2 on LEC migration and proliferation is influenced by SPARC, a regulator of matrix-cell interactions. The results indicate a functional intersection between pathways activated by TGF-beta2 and SPARC in the formation of PCO.

Progression of anterior capsule contraction and PCO is less likely in aphakic eyes than in IOL-implanted eyes. The mechanism of prevention may involve aqueous humor-induced inhibition of LEC proliferation.

Anterior capsule contraction was significantly greater with the AQ310NV and AR40e IOLs than with the other IOLs. Results indicate that cell adhesion to the IOL is an important factor in preventing anterior capsule contraction.