AKR1A1 is part of the aldo/keto reductase superfamily， it catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction from a range of aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes to their related alcohols. AKR1A1 corresponds（65% identity) to aldose reductase， an enzyme that takes part in the pathogenesis of some diabetic and galactosemic complications. AKR1A1 is involved in the activation of procarcinogens， such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon trans-dihydrodiols， and in the metabolism of various xenobiotics and drugs， including the anthracyclines doxorubicin and daunorubicin.
