LC-MS reveals similarities between cataract incision procedures

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of proteins present in aqueous humour obtained from rabbits following cataract surgery incisions has revealed the technique used has little bearing on the response from the eye.

A team of scientists from Johns Hopkins University and the Institute of Analytical Chemistry of the ASCR in the Czech Republic reveal their findings in Proteome Science.

The publication carries studies relating to both structural and functional proteomics disciplines and reports the researchers' discovery of a global response to incision.

Over a period of hours following surgery, total protein levels in the aqueous humour can be seen to increase, the team found.

However, the LC-MS analysis, along with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, found little variation in the specific proteins expressed at each time interval or with each different incision technique.

"This is the first report on the comparison of aqueous humour protein composition following two different cataract surgery procedures and it establishes the basis for better understanding of protein release," the researchers conclude.