Oxidoreductase
Oxidoreductase
Oxidoreductase (pronounced: ox-i-do-re-duc-tase) is a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of electrons from one molecule, the reductant, also called the electron donor, to another, the oxidant, also called the electron acceptor. This process is called oxidation-reduction, or redox. The reductant is oxidized and the oxidant is reduced in the process.
Etymology
The term "Oxidoreductase" is derived from two words: "Oxido", which refers to the process of oxidation, and "reductase", which refers to the process of reduction.
Classification
Oxidoreductases are classified under the EC number 1, which includes oxidoreductases. These enzymes are further classified based on the type of reaction they catalyze. For example, dehydrogenases are a subclass of oxidoreductases that catalyze the removal of hydrogen atoms.
Function
Oxidoreductases play a crucial role in the body's metabolic processes, including cellular respiration, where they facilitate the transfer of electrons in the electron transport chain. They are also involved in the detoxification of harmful substances in the body.
Related Terms
- Redox: A type of chemical reaction where the oxidation states of atoms are changed.
- Enzyme: A protein that acts as a biological catalyst to speed up chemical reactions in cells.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
- Cellular respiration: A set of metabolic reactions and processes that take place in the cells of organisms to convert biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then release waste products.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oxidoreductase
- Wikipedia's article - Oxidoreductase
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