Cataractogenesis

Cataractogenesis is the process of cataract formation. Cataract, which can be defined as any opacity of the crystalline lens, is the leading cause of avoidable blindness worldwide. The mechanisms involved in cataractogenesis are not yet understood. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of contemporary research in cataractogenesis. Several risk factors for cataract formation have been identified, including increasing age, genetic predisposition, oxidative stress and exposure to UV light. Cataract can be congenital, age-related or secondary. Secondary cataract can be associated with ocular conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa or uveitis, or systemic conditions as in the case of diabetes or homocistinuria, or can be also drug-induced, mainly by steroids.