THIOREDOXIN REDUCTASE - STRUCTURE, PROPERTIES, AND FUNCTIONS

Thioredoxin reductase is a member of a family of pyridine nucleotide d isulfide oxidoreductases, flavoproteins known for their remarkable str uctural homology. The enzyme is part of a thioredoxin complex which is found in all types of organisms studied to date and performs a multit ude of physiological functions. Thioredoxin reductase was shown to pro tect skin against UV irradiation-induced oxygen free radicals. The enz yme regulates the biosynthesis of melanin, thereby modulating suntan.