Mechanical Properties of the Porcine Lens Capsule

Basement membranes are ubiquitous. In humans, genetic disorders in basement membranes can lead to many complications including kidney disease, skeletal muscle myopathy, hearing loss, and ocular abnormalities[1]. We hypothesize that genetic mutation of the microstructure of the lens capsule basement membrane will alter its mechanical properties. Because of its unique thickness and anatomically distinct margins, the lens capsule is the only site in the body where large-scale mechanical tests on the basement membrane can be made.