TXNRD1

TXNRD1 (Thioredoxin Reductase 1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TXNRD1 gene. This protein is part of the selenoprotein family, which are proteins that contain the amino acid selenocysteine. TXNRD1 is an important component of the cellular antioxidant system, and plays a crucial role in maintaining the redox balance within the cell.

Function

TXNRD1 is a key enzyme in the thioredoxin system, which is a major redox system that controls the redox state of many proteins and has a critical role in cellular function. The thioredoxin system includes the thioredoxin proteins, TXNRD1, and NADPH. TXNRD1 reduces the oxidized form of thioredoxin using NADPH as an electron donor, thereby maintaining the reduced state of thioredoxin.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the TXNRD1 gene have been associated with various diseases. For example, mutations in this gene have been linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disease. In cancer, overexpression of TXNRD1 has been observed in several types of tumors, suggesting that this protein may contribute to tumor growth and survival. In cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative stress caused by an imbalance in the redox system can lead to cell damage and death, and TXNRD1 is thought to play a role in these processes.

See also

• Thioredoxin
• Selenoprotein
• Redox

References

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