Role of glutathione in the prevention of cataractogenesis in rat lenses

Abstract
A new method was developed for the conjugation of rat lens glutathione by 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB). This reaction is catalyzed by glutathione S-transferase present in the lens; 1 ml of 1 mM CDNB per 2 rat lenses conjugates > 95% of the lens GSH [reduced glutathione] in 30 min at 37.degree. C. Lenses incubated with 1 mM CDNB for 30 min, followed by incubation in the culture medium without CDNB, remained apparently clear for up to 24 h. The CDNB-treated lenses were more susceptible to protein precipitation (cataract formation) when challenged with oxidants such as H2O2 and superoxide anions.