Small Molecules to Target the Selenoprotein Thioredoxin Reductase

Abstract The selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) enzymes are the only identified proteins that maintain thioredoxin (Trx) proteins in a reduced state under physiological conditions, and consequently play a pivotal role in the regulation of various cellular redox signaling pathways involved in cell differentiation, growth, and death. The elevated expression of TrxR enzymes has been observed in different types of cancer cells, and this overexpression is of pathological significance in maintaining tumor phenotypes, such as uncontrolled proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. Herein, we discuss recent advances in the study of TrxR, including classic assays of TrxR, the emerging chemical tools of TrxR, and small molecules that target TrxR as potential anticancer agents.