Abstract: Compositions and methods for their use are provided for preventing proliferation of remnant lens epithelial cells following extracapsular extraction. Complement-fixing monoclonal antibodies specific for lens epithelial cells are introduced into the anterior chamber of the eye. Following binding of the monoclonal antibody to any lens epithelial cells, complement is introduced into the anterior chamber effecting lysis of the remnant lens epithelial cells. The method may be used at the time of extracapsular cataract extraction or may be used subsequently to remove a second cataract resulting from proliferation of remnant lens epithelial cells.

Abstract: Disclosed are mitotic inhibitors effective for and methods of preventing posterior lens capsule opacification after extracapsular extraction. The mitotic inhibitors comprise osmotically balanced solutions containing either methotrexate or retinoic acid, or both, in at least the minimal effective dosage at the end of one lens epithelial cell cycle. The mitotic inhibitors are instilled in the anterior chamber of the eye preferably immediately after the lens has been removed.

Abstract: Disclosed are mitotic inhibitors effective for and methods of preventing posterior lens capsule opacification after extracapsular extraction. The mitotic inhibitors comprise osmotically balanced solutions containing either methotrexate or retinoic acid, or both, in at least the minimal effective dosage at the end of one lens epithelial cell cycle. The mitotic inhibitors are instilled in the anterior chamber of the eye preferably immediately after the lens has been removed.

Abstract: Disclosed are monoclonal antibodies against lens epithelial cells and methods of producing them. Continuous cell lines for producing monoclonal antibodies to lens epithelial cells are disclosed. Human lens epithelial antibody producing cells are fused with myeloma cells to provide a fused hybrid, the hybrid is cultured, and antibodies specific to human lens epithelial cells are collected.Proliferation of remnant lens epithelial cells after extracapsular extraction is prevented by instilling the monoclonal antibodies specific to lens epithelial cells into the anterior chamber of the human eye and allowed to interact with the lens epithelial cells. Complement is then instilled into the anterior chamber to cause lysis or other damage to the lens epithelial cells thereby preventing them from multiplying and migrating to cover the surface of the lens capsule left in place. This can be done at the time of extracapsular cataract extraction or later to remove a second cataract caused by proliferation of these cells.