The DCXR gene encodes a membrane protein that is approximately 34 kDa in size and composed of 224 amino acids.

The protein is highly expressed in the kidney and localizes to the cytoplasmic membrane.

[1] DCSR catalyzes the reduction of several L-xylylose as well as a number of pentoses, tetroses, trioses, alpha-dicarbonyl compounds.

The enzyme is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, glucose metabolism, the uronate cycle and may play a role in the water absorption and cellular osmoregulation in the proximal renal tubules by producing xylitol.

This enzyme belongs to the superfamily of short-chain oxidoreductases, specifically those acting on the CH-OH group of donor with NAD+ or NADP+ as acceptor.