Aldose Reductase

Aldose reductase is an enzyme primarily involved in the polyol pathway, where it catalyzes the reduction of glucose to sorbitol, a sugar alcohol. This conversion is the first step in the pathway and plays a critical role in the metabolism of glucose in cells that are independent of insulin. Aldose reductase is particularly significant in the context of diabetes, as high blood sugar levels lead to increased activity of this enzyme, resulting in an accumulation of sorbitol. This accumulation can cause osmotic stress and contribute to diabetic complications, such as cataracts, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Consequently, inhibitors of aldose reductase are explored as potential treatments for preventing or managing these diabetic complications.