cellular detoxification of hydrogen peroxide

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that reduces or removes the toxicity of hydrogen peroxide in a cell. These include transport of hydrogen peroxide away from sensitive areas and to compartments or complexes whose purpose is sequestration. [GOC:dph, GOC:vw]

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a highly reactive molecule that can damage cellular components, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. Cells have evolved a complex network of detoxification systems to protect themselves from the harmful effects of H2O2.

One of the primary mechanisms of H2O2 detoxification is the **catalase enzyme**. Catalase is found in nearly all living organisms and is particularly abundant in the liver, red blood cells, and peroxisomes. It catalyzes the decomposition of H2O2 into water and oxygen gas:

2 H2O2 → 2 H2O + O2

This reaction occurs very rapidly, with catalase being able to break down millions of H2O2 molecules per second.

Another important enzyme involved in H2O2 detoxification is **glutathione peroxidase**. This enzyme catalyzes the reduction of H2O2 to water using reduced glutathione (GSH) as an electron donor:

2 GSH + H2O2 → GSSG + 2 H2O

GSH is a small molecule that is present in high concentrations in cells and plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense.

In addition to these enzymatic pathways, cells also rely on **non-enzymatic mechanisms** to detoxify H2O2. One such mechanism is the **scavenging of H2O2 by antioxidants**. Antioxidants are molecules that can neutralize free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) like H2O2. Examples of cellular antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione.

Cellular detoxification of H2O2 is a complex and tightly regulated process. It involves the concerted action of multiple enzymes, antioxidants, and other protective mechanisms. This intricate system ensures that cells can maintain their redox balance and protect themselves from the damaging effects of H2O2.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)