catalase

views updated May 18 2018

catalase A haemoprotein, oxidizing enzyme, present in all aerobic organisms, which catalyses the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen. It is the fastest-acting enzyme known, with a turnover number of 6 × 10⁶. It is found in the tissues of animals and is particularly concentrated in the peroxisomes of cells.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

catalase

views updated May 23 2018

catalase An enzyme, found in peroxisomes, that catalyses the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which results from oxidation reactions in the cell (see also superoxide dismutase), into water and oxygen. High concentrations of catalase are found in the liver. Catalase is the fastest known enzyme; it is employed in the rubber industry to form oxygen, which converts latex to foam rubber.

A Dictionary of Biology

catalase

views updated Jun 11 2018

cat·a·lase / ˈkatlˌās; -ˌāz/ • n. Biochem. an enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of hydrogen peroxide.

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

catalase

views updated May 29 2018

catalase An enzyme that splits hydrogen peroxide to yield oxygen and water; an important part of the body's antioxidant defences.

A Dictionary of Food and Nutrition DAVID A. BENDER

catalase

views updated May 23 2018

catalase (kat-ă-layz) n. an enzyme, present in many cells (including red blood cells and liver cells), that catalyses the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.

A Dictionary of Nursing