peroxidedetoxifying

Peroxidedetoxifying refers to the processes by which biological systems and chemical methods neutralize peroxides and organic hydroperoxides, protecting cells and environments from oxidative damage. Peroxides are reactive oxygen species that can modify lipids, proteins, and DNA if not controlled. Detoxification is a central aspect of redox homeostasis in living organisms and is also utilized in industrial and environmental contexts.

In biology, peroxide detoxification relies on a network of enzymes and antioxidants. Catalase rapidly converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, primarily in peroxisomes. Glutathione peroxidases reduce hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides using glutathione as an electron donor, producing oxidized glutathione. Peroxiredoxins detoxify peroxides through thioredoxin-dependent reactions and can act on both hydrogen peroxide and organic peroxides. Superoxide dismutase converts superoxide radicals to hydrogen peroxide, which is then handled by these systems. The thioredoxin and glutathione systems regenerate the active reduced forms through NADPH-dependent enzymes, maintaining a pool of reducing equivalents. Non-enzymatic antioxidants such as vitamins C and E also contribute to peroxide scavenging. Peroxide detoxification occurs in multiple cellular compartments, including the cytosol, mitochondria, and peroxisomes, reflecting the widespread need to manage reactive oxygen species.

Health and disease contexts emphasize its importance: efficient peroxide detoxification supports cell survival, while failures or imbalances in these pathways are linked to aging and conditions such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In industry, peroxide detoxification methods use chemical scavengers or enzyme-based systems to prevent oxidative damage in processes, products, and environmental settings. See also oxidative stress, antioxidants, and redox biology.