reductase

[ ri-duhk-teys, -teyz ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any enzyme acting as a reducing agent.

reductase

/ rɪˈdʌkteɪz /

noun

1. any enzyme that catalyses a biochemical reduction reaction

Word History and Origins

Origin of reductase¹

First recorded in 1900–05; reduct(ion) + -ase

Word History and Origins

Origin of reductase¹

C20: from reduction + -ase

Example Sentences

They found that the vast majority of bacteria had little to no reductase enzymes, but certain groups of bacteria expressed dozens to hundreds of these enzymes.

From Salon

That’s because the research team found that bilirubin reductase is present in almost all healthy adults.

From Salon

These exciting results show that S-nitroso-coenzyme A reductase acts in vivo in mammals to control nitric oxide signalling, which is the third major discovery of the study.

From Nature

People with a condition called 5-alpha reductase deficiency have a genetic mutation that leads them to produce low levels of DHT.

From Scientific American

The 5-alpha reductase inhibitor—a drug frequently used to treat an enlarged prostate—also partially counteracts the negative effects of alcohol because it prevents the formation of new steroid hormones.

From Scientific American