[Thioredoxin-reductase: structure, properties, and function].

Thioredoxin reductase (TR-RED) pertains to the family of pyridine nucleotide disulfide oxidoreductases distinguished by their remarkable structural homology. The enzyme is a constituent component of the thioredoxin complex which is present in all types of organisms and is universal in respect of the numerous physiological functions it performs. The ability of TR-RED to protect the skin from UV-generated free oxygen species has been found. Owing to its ability to control melanin biosynthesis, the enzyme "doses" the suntan.