A Simple Method of Cataract Induction in Adult Zebrafish.

We have developed a simple method for the induction of cataracts in adult zebrafish using hydrogen peroxide. Our method uses a corneal puncture followed by intraocular injection of hydrogen peroxide into the anterior chamber. The procedure can be done rapidly, forming a highly opaque cataract almost immediately, and fish recover quickly. The optical clarity of the lens is gradually regained over time, showing the innate ability of zebrafish to regenerate healthy lens tissue. This technique provides a simple in vivo system with which to assess mutant strains or targeted disruptions to genes expressed in the lens.