When superoxide radicals accumulate,superoxide dismutase catalyzes the formation of hydrogen peroxide.What happens to the hydrogen peroxide?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hydrogen peroxide is toxic to cells, so it needs to be broken down quickly. Superoxide dismutase converts superoxide radicals to hydrogen peroxide, and then catalase or glutathione peroxidase converts hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen. This process helps to prevent oxidative damage to cells. Option A is not correct because hydrogen peroxide is not stable and needs to be broken down. Option B is not correct because excretion through urine and lungs is not a mechanism for breaking down hydrogen peroxide. Option D is not correct because hydrogen peroxide is not used in the synthesis of DNA and RNA.

When Superoxide Radicals Accumulate,superoxide Dismutase Catalyzes the Formation of Hydrogen