Aldehyde Ketone Transferases, also known as AKRs, are a group of enzymes belonging to the aldo-keto reductase superfamily. These enzymes are responsible for the transfer of functional groups, specifically the transfer of aldehyde and ketone groups, from one molecule to another. They act by catalyzing the reversible reduction of aldehydes and ketones using nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) as a coenzyme, resulting in the formation of corresponding alcohols.
Aldehyde Ketone Transferases play essential roles in various biological processes, including detoxification and metabolism of endogenous and exogenous compounds. They are found in a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, plants, and animals.
One example of the importance of these enzymes is their involvement in the metabolism of xenobiotics, such as drugs and environmental toxins. Aldehyde Ketone Transferases help in the detoxification of these compounds by converting potentially harmful aldehydes and ketones into less toxic alcohols.
Furthermore, these enzymes also participate in the biosynthesis and metabolism of important compounds such as fatty acids, steroids, and prostaglandins. They are involved in the regulation of cellular processes like cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress response.
Overall, Aldehyde Ketone Transferases are vital enzymes that play significant roles in various biological processes, including detoxification, metabolism, and cellular regulation.
