Aldose reductase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the conversion of glucose into sorbitol, a type of sugar alcohol. This process is part of the polyol pathway, which is important for regulating sugar levels in the body. Aldose reductase is found in various tissues, including the lens of the eye, kidneys, and nerves. In conditions like diabetes, excessive activity of aldose reductase can lead to complications, such as diabetic neuropathy and cataracts. Inhibitors of aldose reductase are being studied for their potential to prevent or treat these complications by reducing the accumulation of sorbitol in cells.