Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), originally discovered to function in the breakdown of
extracellular matrix proteins, have gained the status of regulatory proteases in signaling …

The programmed removal of organelles from differentiating lens fibre cells contributes
towards lens transparency through formation of an organelle-free zone (OFZ). Disruptions in …

The cells of most mammalian organs are connected by groups of cell-to-cell channels called
gap junctions. Gap junction channels are made from the connexin (Cx) family of proteins …

Calpains are a family of Ca 2+‑dependent cysteine proteases that participate in various
cellular processes. Calpain 3 (CAPN3) is a classical calpain with unique N‑terminus and …

The lens is a multicellular, but avascular tissue that must stay transparent to allow normal
transmission of light and focusing of it on the retina. Damage to lens cells and/or proteins …

Cataracts (opacities of the lens) are frequent in the elderly, but rare in paediatric practice.
Congenital cataracts (in industrialized countries) are mainly caused by mutations affecting …

The human and mouse genomes contain 21 and 20 connexin genes, respectively. During
the last 10-year period, genetic research on connexins has been stimulated by two parallel …

The lens is an avascular organ that is supported by an internal circulation of water and
solutes. This circulation is driven by ion pumps, channels and transporters in epithelial cells …

Connexin (Cx) and pannexin (Panx) proteins form large conductance channels, which
function as regulators of communication between neighbouring cells via gap junctions …

Purpose.: Age-related nuclear cataracts involve denaturation and aggregation of
intracellular proteins. We have documented age-dependent changes in membrane transport …