3D finite element modeling of avascular circulation in the ocular lens

Abstract

The ability to see is dependent on the actions of several structures in and around the eyeball. By looking at an object, light rays are reflected from the object to the cornea. Light rays are refracted and focused by the cornea, lens, and "vitreous". The lens function is to ensure that the light rays come to a sharp focus point on the retina. A comprehensive, quantitative model of lens functionality would be of great utility for the development of any anticataract medicine. Yet most of the research to date has focused on isolated and specific features of the crystalline lens. Thus a full integrated 3D model of the lens is needed in order to facilitate development of therapies and prevention procedures for cataracts. Here we developed an initial 3D model of the lens circulation using a finite element modeling approach based on the CMISS simulation environment created at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute. This work represents the first multiscale integrative numerical model of the avascular circulation system. The model we have developed correctly simulates and predicts the available empirical data on lens physiology. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.