Chemistry
The Role of Thioredoxin in Cellular Redox Regulation
Quick fact
Thioredoxin is a tiny protein (about 12 kDa) that acts as a universal disulfide reductase, reducing oxidized protein thiols to restore their function. It is regenerated by thioredoxin reductase and NADPH, making it a central player in cellular redox homeostasis and antioxidant defense.
Why this is interesting
Inside every cell, a small protein acts as a molecular janitor, constantly fixing the damage caused by oxygen. But how does it know which proteins need repair, and why does its job matter for your health?