Abstract: The pathogenesis of cataracts is linked to multiple factors, with oxidative stress, excessive quinone substances, aldose reductase activity, and lens protein aggregation being the main mechanisms. Recently, many drugs and compounds have been identified through basic and animal studies as having potential anti-cataract effects. These include polyphenolic compounds extracted from plants, Ginkgo biloba leaves, ginger, and drugs like pirenoxine eye drops for excessive quinone substances. Aldose reductase inhibitors such as diosgenin and L-lysine and anti-lens protein aggregation agents like lanosterol and 25-hydroxycholesterol also show promise, indicating a shift towards molecular approaches in anti-cataract therapy. Despite the therapeutic potential seen in research, limitations such as the extrapolation of animal study results and individual variability currently hinder their clinical application. With further research, these drugs may be used in clinical settings in the future. (Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2025, 49:  25-31)

Key words: ataract, pathogenic mechanism, drug prevention and treatment