Ophthalmoscopic and morphogenetic changes in rat lens induced by galactose: attenuation by pyruvate.
BACKGROUND
Investigations have been conducted on the potential of pyruvate, a normal tissue metabolite, in the prevention of cataract formation.


METHODS
Cataract was induced by maintaining young rats on a diet containing 30% galactose. The progress of cataract was monitored by visual inspection and ophthalmoscopic and slit-lamp examinations. The protective effect of pyruvate was assessed by incorporating it in the galactose diet and drinking water. The progress of cataract was substantially thwarted by this dietary regimen.


RESULTS
Substantial morphogenetic changes in the lenses of the galactosaemic animals, which by themselves can offer obstruction to light penetration through the lens and scattering, were significantly attenuated. These changes were ascertained by histological detection of errors in cellular differentiation and their migration in unwanted areas.


CONCLUSIONS
As per previous studies, the pyruvate effect is attributed to its direct effect on the biochemistry of lens related to the inhibition of oxidative stress, as well as to its effect on tissue physiology related to the lifelong process of organogenesis, characteristic of this tissue.
Kalakonda
S
S
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 212019, USA.
Hegde
K R
KR
Varma
S D
SD
D000818:Animals; D002386:Cataract / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D002465:Cell Movement; D004032:Diet; D004376:Galactitol / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors; D005690:Galactose; D007908:Lens, Crystalline / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D009887:Ophthalmoscopy / Q000379:methods; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D019289:Pyruvic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000378:metabolism; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley
D004376:Galactitol; D019289:Pyruvic Acid; D005690:Galactose