444 STRUCTURE OF THE CRYSTALLINE LENS. 



lens is macerated for a short time in water, or water acidu- 

 lated with mineral acid, it separates readily from the centre 

 to the circumference in layers which may readily be reduced 

 to fibres, as seen in the human lens and in the lens of a fish, 

 (Lophius piscatorius,) fig. 199. 



Fig. 199.* The opaque structure of the 



lens opens at the septae in many 

 cases of cataract, and presents 

 the dehiscent appearance seen 

 occasionally through the trans- 

 parent capsule. The fluid call- 

 ed liquor Morgagni, said to ex- 

 ist between the capsule and 

 lens, Professor Jacobs considers a post mortem result, like that of 

 the pericardium ; the fluid escaping from the cells of the lens. 

 In the eyes of domestic animals examined shortly after death 

 no fluid is met with, but if many hours are allowed to elapse, 

 a small quantity is found in the capsule. My own observations 

 made both with the naked eye, and with the use of a strong 

 lens, are in confirmation of his views. 



This distinguished anatomist considers the semicartilaginous 

 transparent capsule to be applied, immediately on the surface 

 of the lens, so as to preserve its pulpy exterior in the proper 

 curvature. 



Between the lens and capsule there is evident connexion at 

 the back part, where Albinus has injected a vessel passing 

 from the capsule to the lens. When the anterior part of the 

 capsule is opened, Mr. J. believes it is the contraction or 

 shrinking of the capsule which breaks the connexion, and 

 forces the lens from its bed ; an occurrence which we find 

 does not always take place in operations upon the eye, without 

 artificial aid. 



* The small figure to the left in this cut, represents the human lens, 

 macerated in water containing a few drops of acid for several days, when it is 

 found split open by fissures extending from its centre to its circumference. 

 The large figure to the right, is the lens of a fish prepared in the same way by 

 Mr. Jacobs ; its fibres unfolded with a delicate needle, and presenting a tufted 

 appearance. p. 



