Observations on a Cytoplasmic Component in Lens Fibers

Electron microscope studies of adul t animal lenses have revealed the presence of a cytoplasmic substance in the form of filamentous and possibly spherical s t ructures (1). I t has been designated as low densi ty mater ial with reference to its opacity to the electron beam. Since this system bore no resemblance to any cytoplasmic elements previously described in other tissues, an identification of the low densi ty ma t t e r was a t tempted . The present report deals with the isolation and general properties of a cell fraction which appears identical wi th the low densi ty mater ial in the osmium-fixed and embedded state.