n :  an enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of a folate having one of its rings with two double bonds and two attached hydrogen atoms into the dihydro form differing only in having one double bond and four hydrogen atoms in the same ring, that is essential for DNA and protein synthesis, and that is a target for inhibition by some anticancer drugs (as methotrexate) in order to stop tumor cell growth and reproduction .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.