reductase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “reductase” mean?
An enzyme that catalyzes a reduction reaction, where a molecule gains electrons, often in the form of hydrogen atoms.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An enzyme that catalyzes a reduction reaction, where a molecule gains electrons, often in the form of hydrogen atoms.
In biochemistry and molecular biology, a reductase facilitates chemical reductions essential in processes like cellular respiration, detoxification, and biosynthesis. The term is often part of a compound name specifying the substrate (e.g., ribonucleotide reductase).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Purely technical with no cultural or regional connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to scientific literature.
Grammar
How to Use “reductase” in a Sentence
[Substrate] + reductasereductase + deficiencyreductase + activityinhibition of + reductaseVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reductase” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The nitrate reductase assay requires careful control of pH.
- A deficiency in methionine synthase reductase can cause neurological issues.
American English
- Researchers purified the glutathione reductase for kinetic studies.
- The drug works by competitively inhibiting the reductase.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Core term in biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and medical research papers.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Essential term in laboratory protocols, enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathway descriptions, and drug development (e.g., statins target HMG-CoA reductase).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reductase”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “reductase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reductase”
- Misspelling as 'reductace' or 'reduktase'.
- Using it as a general verb (e.g., 'to reductase something' is incorrect).
- Confusing it with 'reductant' (the reducing agent).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialised scientific term almost exclusively used in biochemistry, medicine, and related research fields.
No, it is strictly a noun. The related verb is 'reduce'.
Both catalyze redox reactions. Dehydrogenases typically remove hydrogen atoms (oxidation), while reductases typically add hydrogen atoms or electrons (reduction). The distinction can be subtle and usage is often historical or based on the specific reaction.
The substrate name comes first, followed by 'reductase' (e.g., 'nitrate reductase', 'aldose reductase'). This follows the standard Enzyme Commission (EC) naming convention.
An enzyme that catalyzes a reduction reaction, where a molecule gains electrons, often in the form of hydrogen atoms.
Reductase is usually technical/scientific in register.
Reductase: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˈdʌkteɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˈdʌkteɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: REDUCTase helps REDUCE a molecule by adding electrons. The '-ase' ending tells you it's an enzyme.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MACHINE or CATALYST that facilitates a specific chemical reduction.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a reductase enzyme?