Computer assisted scanning laser monitor of optical quality of the excised crystalline lens.

We describe a technique, involving the projection of low power laser beams through excised lenses in solution, that makes it possible to measure photographically lens optical aberrations. Preliminary work indicates that the laser method can be used in combination with lens culture experiments as a means of monitoring changes in studies of lens biology. The goal of this research is the development of an effective in vitro optical monitor of ocular lenses in order to assist the study of the biochemistry of lens aging and cataractogenesis and be used as a sensitive toxicity measuring device.