Catalase

/ˈkætəleɪs/ noun

Definition

An enzyme found in living cells that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Etymology

From catalysis (a chemical reaction accelerated by a catalyst) with the enzyme suffix -ase. The term emerged in biochemistry in the late 19th century when scientists identified this important cellular enzyme.

Kelly Says

Catalase is one of the most abundant enzymes on Earth—a single catalase molecule can break down millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules per second, making it one of the most efficient enzymes known!

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