Objective: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the important cataract risk factors. However, the pathogenesis is still poorly understood. The migration of human lens epithelial cells(HLECs) plays a crucial role in the remodeling of lens capsule and cataract formation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism of UV inducing cataractogenesis. Methods:The toxicity of UV-irradiation on HLECs was assessed by Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium(MTT) assay. The activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2(MMP-2) was observed by Gelatin zymography. The migration of HLECs was examined by Cell Track Motility. Results:UV-irradiation does great harm to HLECs, and may induce apoptosis in the cells when UV higher than 15 mj/cm2. UV significantly increased MMP-2 activity in a time-dependent manner. In addition, the irradiation could induce the migration of HLECs. Conclusion:UV-irradiation could induce the migration of HLECs by increasing the activity of MMP-2.