reductase
n. countablen. a type of enzyme that helps move electrons from one substance to another. It is often used in the body to build or break down chemicals.
n. an enzyme that catalyses the transfer of electrons from a reductant to an oxidant. Typically functions in metabolic pathways involving the synthesis of complex molecules.
The body uses a specific reductase to make cholesterol.
Scientists are studying how a particular reductase helps plants convert sunlight into energy more efficiently.
Inhibitors of this specific reductase are commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels by blocking the liver's ability to synthesize the compound from dietary fats.
From reduct(ion) + -ase.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 30, 2026