Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a reactive oxygen species formed through several cellular processes, including the dismutation of superoxide by superoxide dismutases, oxidation by various oxidases (e.g., NADPH oxidases, mitochondrial complexes), and as a byproduct of aerobic metabolism. While potentially cytotoxic in excess, H₂O₂ also acts as a vital signaling molecule in processes such as growth factor signaling, insulin transduction, tissue repair, immune responses, and regulation of circadian rhythms. Its cellular production is tightly regulated by antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and peroxiredoxins. Dysregulated H₂O₂ generation and detoxification contribute to diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, neurodegeneration, and inflammation, highlighting its dual role in physiology and pathology.

Other names

H₂O₂ biosynthesisreactive oxygen species generationhydrogen peroxideH₂O₂peroxide

Scavenging or neutralization of hydrogen peroxide (antioxidants, catalase mimetics) Inhibiting enzymatic sources (e.g., NADPH oxidase inhibitors reduce H₂O₂ production)