DCXR Human, Bioactive
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Dicarbonyl/L-Xylulose Reductase (DCXR), also known as Carbonyl Reductase II, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of various sugars and carbonyl compounds. This enzyme is particularly significant in the reduction of L-xylulose and other dicarbonyl compounds, which are intermediates in the uronate cycle of glucose metabolism .
The human recombinant form of DCXR is produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain consisting of 264 amino acids. The recombinant enzyme includes a 20 amino acid His-Tag at the N-terminus, which facilitates its purification through chromatographic techniques . The molecular mass of the enzyme is approximately 28 kDa .
DCXR catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of a variety of pentoses, tetroses, trioses, alpha-dicarbonyl molecules, and L-xylulose. This reduction process is essential for the conversion of these compounds into their respective alcohol forms, such as xylitol from L-xylulose . The enzyme’s activity is crucial for maintaining cellular osmoregulation and water absorption in the proximal renal tubules by producing xylitol, an osmolyte that prevents osmolytic stress .
The enzyme’s role in the uronate cycle of glucose metabolism highlights its importance in the broader context of carbohydrate metabolism. By converting L-xylulose to xylitol, DCXR helps regulate the levels of reactive carbonyl species, which can be harmful if accumulated in high concentrations . Additionally, the enzyme’s activity in the kidneys aids in the prevention of osmolytic stress, thereby contributing to overall renal health .
The recombinant DCXR enzyme is typically stored in a sterile, filtered, colorless solution containing Tris-HCl buffer, dithiothreitol (DTT), glycerol, and sodium chloride (NaCl). For short-term storage, the enzyme can be kept at 4°C, while long-term storage requires freezing at -20°C with the addition of a carrier protein to prevent degradation . It is important to avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles to maintain the enzyme’s activity and stability .
DCXR has various applications in biochemical research and clinical studies. Its ability to reduce a wide range of carbonyl compounds makes it a valuable tool for studying metabolic pathways and the effects of reactive carbonyl species. Additionally, the enzyme’s role in osmoregulation and renal function can be explored in the context of kidney health and disease .
