Superoxide dismutase enzyme (SOD)

Superoxide dismutase enzyme refers to a family of metalloenzymes present in nearly all aerobic organisms that catalyze the conversion ("dismutation") of the highly reactive superoxide anion radical into molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide—a critical antioxidant defense mechanism protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by normal metabolism or environmental stresses. In humans, there are several isoforms including cytosolic Cu/Zn-SOD (SOD1), mitochondrial Mn-SOD (SOD2), and extracellular forms. Deficiency or mutation—especially in SOD1—is linked to neurodegenerative disorders such as familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The enzymes play dual roles both limiting ROS toxicity and regulating redox-sensitive cellular signaling pathways involved in apoptosis, inflammation, aging-related diseases, cancer progression/inhibition, cardiovascular health, among others.

Other names

Superoxide dismutaseSODCu/Zn superoxide dismutase (for the cytosolic form, SOD1)Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD, for mitochondrial form, SOD2)Orgotein (pharmaceutical preparation)PaloseinMetalloprotein

Drugs or supplements containing superoxide dismutase act by catalyzing the conversion of harmful superoxide radicals into molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, thereby reducing oxidative stress in tissues. This mechanism underlies their proposed anti-inflammatory effects in diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.