This book is the first to summarize the current knowledge of the cell biology of lens epithelial cells in relation to and in the development of posterior capsular opacification (PCO). PCO remains the most common long-term complication of modern cataract surgery, occurring months or years after cataract surgery, unlike most other complications that tend to arise during or soon after the procedure. Opacification of the posterior capsule appears to be linked to lens epithelial cells that are left behind in the eye during cataract removal. These cells proliferate, migrate across the posterior lens capsule, and undergo changes that result in fibrous or pearl-type opacities in the capsule.

The first section of the text explains the molecular mechanism and biology of lens epithelial cells that lead to the incidence of PCO. In the second part, in addition to a description of the mechanism and pathological condition of PCO, surgical methods and devices for preventing PCO are discussed in detail." ""Lens Epithelium and Capsular Opacification" will benefit not only young clinical residents and junior researchers, but also established faculty in the clinical or basic academic field.

This book provides a comprehensive view of research in lens developmental biology, emphasising technical and molecular breakthroughs. Elucidation of the mechanisms that govern lens development has enabled us to understand how the normal lens forms and how developmental processes are involved in the maintenance of its normal structure, function and growth throughout life. This knowledge is fundamental to our understanding of many lens disorders. The ocular lens has also become a model for understanding the developmental biology of more complex organ systems. In this 2004 book, leading experts in lens cell biology and development discuss lens evolution, induction, morphology, the regulation of the lens cell cycle and fiber cell differentiation, as well as lens regeneration. This book is an authoritative treatment of the subject that will serve as a reference for graduate students and research scientists in developmental biology and in the visual sciences, as well as for ophthalmologists.