What is the function of the enzyme catalase?

Catalase is a peroxidase enzyme found primarily in the liver and other tissues, particularly in peroxisomes. Its primary function is to catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into water (H₂O) and oxygen (O₂) to protect cells from oxidative damage. The reaction is as follows:

$$2{\text{H}}_2{\text{O}}_2\stackrel{\text{catalase}}{\to }2{\text{H}}_2\text{O}+{\text{O}}_2$$

Key Functions:

• Detoxification: Neutralizes harmful hydrogen peroxide, a byproduct of metabolic reactions, preventing cellular damage.
• Oxygen Supply: Releases oxygen, which can be utilized in cellular respiration.
• Protection Against Oxidative Stress: Prevents the accumulation of toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), safeguarding cellular components like DNA, proteins, and lipids.

Hydrogen peroxideHydrogen peroxide

Catalase is highly efficient, with each molecule capable of converting millions of H₂O₂ molecules per second.