Carbohydrate metabolism of the lens depending on age. V. Problems of mathematical approach and graphical presentation.

For investigations on age-dependent changes of lens metabolism, longitudinal studies are requisite. Graphic representation of such findings should be based on a proper arithmetic age scale. Using the lens weight for representing the age leads to distortion of the curves, whereby certain periods of life are liable to be overemphasized. In longitudinal studies, data on concentrations should never be given per unit weight, but rather for the whole lens. Absolute values of the whole, intact lens may be referred to a reference value, a percental representation of the curves is possible. With regard to the expectancy of life of test animals one may already state that longitudinal studies including the senile phase will only be feasible with rats.