AKR1B10 is predominantly expressed in the gastrointestinal tract, including the small intestine and colon . It is also found in the adrenal gland and liver, albeit at lower levels . The enzyme plays a crucial role in detoxifying cytotoxic carbonyls, modulating retinoic acid levels, and regulating cellular fatty acid synthesis and lipid metabolism .
AKR1B10 is overexpressed in several types of solid tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), lung cancer, and breast cancer . Its overexpression is associated with the formation and development of carcinomas through multiple mechanisms, including detoxification of cytotoxic carbonyls and modulation of retinoic acid levels . Studies have suggested that AKR1B10 could serve as a useful biomarker for cancer diagnosis and a potential target for cancer treatment .
Recombinant human AKR1B10 is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the human AKR1B10 gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the enzyme in large quantities. This recombinant enzyme is used in various research applications, including studies on its role in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target .