This work reviews the effects of catalyst formulation and exhaust gas composition on soot oxidation in CDPF (Catalytic Diesel Particulate Filter). DOC's (Diesel Oxidation Catalysts) have been loaded with Pt catalyst (Pt/$Al_{2}O_3$) for reduction of HC and CO. Recent CDPF's are coated with the Pt catalyst as well as additives like Mo, V, Ce, Co, Fe, La, Au, or Zr for the promotion of soot oxidation. Alkali (K, Na, Cs, Li) doping of metal catalyst tends to increase the activity of the catalysts in soot combustion. Effects of coexistence components are very important in the catalytic reaction of the soot. The soot oxidation rate of a few catalysts are improved by water vapor and NOx in the ambient. There are only a few reports available on the mechanism of the PM (particulate matter) oxidation on the catalysts. The mechanism of PM oxidation in the catalytic systems that meet new emission regulations of diesel engines has yet to be investigated. Future research will focus on catalysts that can not only oxidize PM at low temperature, but also reduce NOx, continuously self-cleaning diesel particulate filters, and selective catalysts for NOx reduction.