Antioxidant defense system enzyme

Antioxidant defense system enzymes comprise a group of endogenous enzymes, primarily superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), that act to neutralize reactive oxygen species and prevent cellular and molecular damage from oxidative stress. These enzymes are critical for cellular redox homeostasis, acting by scavenging superoxide radicals, catalyzing the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, and repairing oxidative injury. They play essential roles in many biological processes, including cell survival, inflammation regulation, bone homeostasis, and redox signaling. Dysregulation or deficiency in these enzymes is implicated in a wide range of diseases, such as cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders. While they function as important therapeutic targets, interventions must be carefully balanced since ROS also serve physiological functions in cell signaling and immune defense.

Other names

Antioxidant enzymesROS-scavenging enzymesOxidative stress defense enzymes

Free radical scavenging; Hydrogen peroxide decomposition; Electron transfer, redox cycling; Chelation of transition metals (by secondary antioxidants)