Catalase: Function and Importance, Clinical Aspects

• Catalase is an enzyme located in the peroxisomes of eukaryotic cells and the cytoplasm of prokaryotes.

• It efficiently catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2).

• This process is crucial for preventing oxidative damage and maintaining cellular homeostasis.
  

• The reaction is as follows:

2H2​O2 ​→ 2H2​O + O2​

Function and Importance

• Catalase has one of the highest turnover rates among enzymes; it can convert millions of molecules of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen per second.

• This efficiency is vital for protecting cells from oxidative damage and ensuring the balance of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Clinical Aspects

• A genetic deficiency in catalase can lead to the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide, increasing the risk of oral gangrene, diabetes, and certain infections.

• However, many individuals with this deficiency remain asymptomatic due to compensatory mechanisms from other antioxidant enzymes.