[X-ray-induced cataract as a model for investigating cataractogenesis (author's transl)].

X-rays are known to be a true cataractogenic agent. Since they can be accurately dosed and directed they are particularly suitable for inducing experimental cataracts. By means of ionizing rays, lesions are induced in various lens segments. Both the extent of the damage as well as the latency period until it becomes manifest are highly age-dependent. Since lens changes effected by ionizing rays are in many respects, similar to age-related changes, experimental cataracts induced by X-rays provide suitable models for investigating processes involved in the multifactorial genesis of senile cataract.