DHRS7 is an NADPH-dependent oxidoreductase localized to the endoplasmic reticulum lumen that catalyzes the reduction of carbonyl-containing substrates 1. Primary physiological functions include metabolizing steroids (particularly reduction of 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone to 3alpha-androstanediol) 23, retinoids (all-trans-retinal to all-trans-retinol) 4, and xenobiotics bearing carbonyl groups such as quinones and naphtoquinones 1. DHRS7 exhibits dual substrate specificity and is highly expressed in metabolically active tissues including prostate, adrenal glands, liver, and intestine 4. Recent proteomic analysis reveals widespread lactylation on DHRS7 across human tissues 5, a post-translational modification implicated in functional regulation. In cancer biology, DHRS7 expression correlates with reduced nuclear size and favorable outcomes in prostate cancer, suggesting potential tumor suppressor activity 6. However, in gastric adenocarcinoma, DHRS7 shows context-dependent effects, potentially promoting tumor growth in advanced stages through PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway activation 7. Additionally, downregulation of DHRS7 in necrotizing enterocolitis associates with increased inflammatory cell infiltration and enhanced inflammatory signaling 8, indicating immune-modulatory functions beyond metabolism.