?Cataract is characterized by light-scattering protein aggregates. The ubiquitin-proteasome system has been proposed a role in proteolytic removal of these protein aggregates. Ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 (UCHL1) is a de-ubiquitinating enzyme with important functions in recycling of ubiquitin. A protective role of the p.S18Y polymorphism of the UCHL1 gene has been shown in Parkinson`s disease. The current study aimed to examine possible effects on cataract formation.
Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Section of Ophthalmology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden. thiemo.rudolph@gmail.com