DCLRE1 downregulated by SYVN1-mediated ubiquitination and degradation, weakening mitochondrial homeostasis protection in ARC formation.

DNA oxidative damage of lens epithelium cells (LECs) has been proved to be significantly related to age-related cataract (ARC). DCLRE1A, as a member of the DNA interstrand cross-links pathway, can repair damaged DNA. However, DCLRE1A has not been addressed in maintaining mitochondrial healthy. Our findings demonstrated that DCLRE1A alleviated mtDNA oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. Besides, the E3 ubiquitin ligase SYVN1 interacts with DCLRE1A and promotes its ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, SYVN1 knockdown exacerbated H2O2-induced lens opacity in both ex-vitro rat lenses and ARC mouse. Together, these results underscore the pivotal role of DCLRE1A ubiquitination in modulating mitochondrial homeostasis, offering novel insights into ARC pathogenesis. The E3 ubiquitin ligase SYVN1, related to DNA damage repair, offers a promising avenue for treating cataracts with antioxidative.