Peroxidase
Peroxidase
Peroxidase (pronounced: peh-rox-ih-dase) is a type of enzyme that is widely distributed in animals, plants, and microorganisms.
Etymology
The term "peroxidase" is derived from the words "peroxide" and "-ase". "Peroxide" is a compound containing two oxygen atoms bound together, and "-ase" is a suffix used in biochemistry to denote an enzyme.
Function
Peroxidases play a crucial role in various biological processes, including the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a potentially harmful byproduct of cellular metabolism. They also participate in the synthesis of important biological molecules and in the defense mechanisms of organisms.
Types
There are several types of peroxidases, including:
- Catalase: This enzyme is found in nearly all living organisms exposed to oxygen and serves to protect cells from the toxic effects of hydrogen peroxide.
- Glutathione peroxidase: This enzyme is found in humans and other animals and helps protect the body from oxidative damage.
- Myeloperoxidase: This enzyme is found in certain white blood cells and plays a role in the immune response.
Related Terms
- Enzyme: A protein that acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
- Hydrogen peroxide: A compound that can be harmful to cells and is broken down by peroxidases.
- Catalase: A type of peroxidase that is found in nearly all living organisms exposed to oxygen.
- Glutathione peroxidase: A type of peroxidase that helps protect the body from oxidative damage.
- Myeloperoxidase: A type of peroxidase found in certain white blood cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Peroxidase
- Wikipedia's article - Peroxidase
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