Molecular and functional aspects of superoxide dismutases

摘要: Superoxide dismutases are ubiquitously distributed in all biological systems including prokaryotic, eukaryotic and plant cells. These proteins contain either copper zinc or manganese iron the active centre, respectively. During catalytic activity, superoxide anion is converted into dioxygen hydrogen peroxide. Cu2Zn2 dismutase one of most intensively studied metalloproteins. The primary structure many these has been elucidated. A convincing structure-function correlation was deduced from biophysical chemical data. influence protein backbone on reactivity metal thoroughly studied. Of special interest centre dismutase. molecular architecture phylogenetically older enzymes far less understood. At present, clinical biochemical aspects reactive oxygen species enjoy a marked interest, as they thought to be responsible for derived cell-damage. This may reflect overwhelming number different assay described evaluation activity. suitable convenient assays briefly discussed. model chemistry low mass complexes transition metals reviewed. Emphasis placed significance ligands, frequently used antiinflammatory drugs. interaction with relevance this enzyme critically summarized.