Catalase
Catalase (pronunciation: /ˈkætəˌleɪz/) is an important enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen. It is a common enzyme found in nearly all living organisms exposed to oxygen.
Etymology
The term "Catalase" was first used in the early 20th century. It is derived from the words 'Catalysis' and 'Diastase'. 'Catalysis' is a Greek word which means 'loosening down', while 'Diastase' is a term used to refer to any of the various enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of starch into maltose.
Function
Catalase has one of the highest turnover numbers of all enzymes; one catalase molecule can convert millions of molecules of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen each second. It functions by facilitating the reaction of 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2. This serves to protect cells from the toxic effects of hydrogen peroxide.
Related Terms
- Enzyme: A substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: A compound of hydrogen and oxygen, a powerful oxidizing agent with the formula H2O2.
- Oxygen: A chemical element of atomic number 8 and symbol O. It is a member of the chalcogen group on the periodic table and is a highly reactive nonmetal and oxidizing agent.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Catalase
- Wikipedia's article - Catalase
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