AKR1C3 is part of the aldo/keto reductase superfamily， which has at least 40 identified proteins. AKR1C3 catalyzes the conversion of aldehydes and ketones to their corresponding alcohols by utilizing NADH and/or NADPH as cofactors. AKR1C3 displays overlapping but distinct substrate specificity. AKR1C3 catalyzes the reduction of prostaglandin（PG) D2， PGH2 and phenanthrenequinone（PQ)， and the oxidation of 9alpha，11beta-PGF2 to PGD2. AKR1C3 is involved in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as asthma. AKR1C3 controls cell growth and/or differentiation. AKR1C3， having ability to convert androstenedione to testosterone， itakes part in adrenal testosterone production. AKR1C3 expression is affected by metabolic disease， and its levels are considerably reduced in response to diet-induced weight loss and correlate with leptin levels.
