Anti-Aldose reductase antibody

Supplementary info

Activity summary

Aldose reductase also known as AR or ALR2 is an important enzyme in the polyol pathway. It has a molecular mass of about 36 kDa and reduces aldehydes including glucose to their corresponding alcohols. Aldose reductase is expressed widely in various tissues such as kidney lens and retina. The enzyme uses NADPH as a cofactor which is important for its catalytic activity.

Biological function summary

The main function of aldose reductase involves converting glucose to sorbitol a process particularly active under hyperglycemic conditions. It does not form a part of a larger complex but works individually to facilitate this conversion. Sorbitol the product of its enzymatic reaction eventually converts to fructose through the action of sorbitol dehydrogenase. This two-step conversion can contribute to cellular damage due to osmotic stress when sorbitol accumulates.

Pathways

Aldose reductase plays a central role in the polyol pathway. This pathway becomes highly relevant when blood glucose levels are elevated. During such conditions aldose reductase activity increases to convert excess glucose to sorbitol. This activity links it to other proteins like sorbitol dehydrogenase which completes the conversion to fructose.

Associated diseases and disorders

Aldose reductase has strong connections to diabetic complications specifically diabetic neuropathy and retinopathy. The enzyme’s increased activity under high glucose conditions can lead to osmotic stress and tissue damage. Interactions with other proteins in the metabolic shift associated with diabetes such as sorbitol dehydrogenase underline its involvement. Aldose reductase inhibitors show potential in mitigating these adverse effects by reducing sorbitol accumulation.