THIOREDOXIN AND THIOREDOXIN REDUCTASE IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF SELECTED HUMAN DISEASES, PART I

Thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase are two proteins commonly found among unicellular and multicellular organisms. They forms a thioredoxin system, which is involved in protecting cells against oxidative stress, regulation of apoptosis and regulation of tumorigenesis. Defects in thioredoxin system are associated with the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including viral diseases, cardiovascular diseases, premature aging and the development of cancer. Both decreased and increased activity of thioredoxin system can participate in development of diseases. Involvement of thioredoxin system in development of diseases is in most cases associated with poorly efficient removal of reactive oxygen species, which leads to oxidative stress in cells.