Abstract:Crystallin is a major structural protein within the lens, some post-translational modifications(PTM)can change the structure or solubility of crystallin and result in the opacity of lens while others may related to the protection of lens protein. Especially the decline of the chaperon activity of α crystallin results in the aggregation of some crystallins and the inactivation of enzymes, which is closely associated with the pathogenesis of age-related cataract(ARC). The exact etiology of ARC is still unknown. Although much effort has been directed towards slowing progression or preventing the occurrence of cataract, the main management of cataract remains surgical. The current research progress of crystallin and its contribution to age-related cataract was reviewed in this article.
