Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 family member A3 (ALDH1A3)

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A3 (ALDH1A3) is an enzyme that belongs to the aldehyde dehydrogenase superfamily. It primarily catalyzes the oxidation of all-trans retinaldehyde to all-trans retinoic acid, which is crucial for activating the retinoid nuclear receptor pathway. While it has limited physiological function in healthy adults, ALDH1A3 plays a critical role during fetal development, particularly in regulating cell apoptosis. Mutations in ALDH1A3 are associated with microphthalmia, a developmental eye disorder. In cancer, elevated ALDH1A3 expression is linked to tumor aggressiveness, chemoresistance, and increased proliferation, making it a potential therapeutic target, though selective inhibitors are still under investigation.

Other names

RALDH3Retinaldehyde dehydrogenase 3ALDH6 (in earlier studies)

Selective inhibitors are under investigation but none have yet reached clinical use specific for this isoform. Pan-inhibitors like Win18446 have been tested without major adverse effects but lack specificity for ALDH1A3 alone.