Uric acid (UA) is the final product of human purine metabolism. As one of the main antioxidants in the body, it can scavenge oxidative radicals. Under the action of oxidative-antioxidant shuttle mechanism, the antioxidant activity of UA can be reversed, causing inflammation and oxidative stress of vascular endothelial cells. Hyperuricemia (HUA) is considered to be one of the major risk factors for diabetes and diabetic nephropathy. The study of HUA in diabetic retinopathy (DR) is also a hot topic. UA can cause retinal vascular sclerosis, and affect the occurrence and development of DR by promoting oxidative stress and inducing neovascularization.