Aldo-keto reductase family 7 member A3 (AKR7A3)

Aldo-keto reductase family 7 member A3 (AKR7A3) is a cytosolic enzyme and member of the aldo-keto reductase superfamily, which catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of aldehydes and ketones—including toxic products from cellular metabolism and carcinogenic intermediates such as aflatoxin dialdehydes—into less reactive alcohols. This enzymatic activity protects tissues, particularly the liver, from damage and carcinogenic effects. AKR7A3 forms a dimeric quaternary structure and contains a characteristic (\u03b1/\u03b2)8-barrel fold shared by all AKRs, but features unique loop and helix arrangements of the AKR7 subclass. It is encoded on human chromosome 1 and expressed in tissues including stomach, pancreas, and kidney, and is being investigated for its roles in cancer prevention and metabolic disease.

Other names

AKR7A3AFAR2Aflatoxin aldehyde reductaseAflatoxin B1 aldehyde reductase 1aflatoxin aldehyde reductase member 3

Reduction of toxic aldehydes and ketones to less reactive and non-toxic alcohol forms using NADPH as a cofactor. Metabolic detoxification via enzymatic catalysis, potentially protecting cells (especially liver) from genotoxic damage.