Catalase and related antioxidant enzymes

Catalase and related antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), form the primary enzymatic defense system against oxidative stress in aerobic organisms. Catalase is a heme-containing tetrameric enzyme that specifically catalyzes the rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and molecular oxygen, preventing the formation of highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. These enzymes are essential for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and protecting proteins, lipids, and DNA from oxidative damage. Dysregulation of antioxidant enzyme activity is a hallmark of various diseases, including cancer, where it can influence tumor progression and resistance to therapy. In neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, the loss of antioxidant capacity leads to chronic inflammation and tissue injury. Therapeutic strategies involve the use of enzyme mimetics, such as ebselen or salen-manganese complexes, and the delivery of exogenous enzymes via nanotechnology to improve stability and targeting. Despite their potential, the clinical use of these enzymes is limited by challenges such as short half-life, immunogenicity, and the risk of disrupting essential physiological redox signaling.

Other names

CATSODGPxAntioxidant enzymesRedox enzymes

Scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to prevent oxidative damage and modulate redox-sensitive signaling pathways.