superoxide dismutase

noun

superoxide dis·​mut·​ase -dis-ˈmyü-ˌtās How to pronounce superoxide dismutase (audio)
-ˌtāz
: a metal-containing antioxidant enzyme that reduces harmful free radicals of oxygen formed during normal metabolic cell processes to oxygen and hydrogen peroxide

Examples of superoxide dismutase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Erythrocyte reduced glutathione levels, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly increased in the rats kept in the pyramid as compared to the other two groups. Ncbi Rofl, Discover Magazine, 22 Feb. 2012 Dogs with two copies of a mutation in the gene superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) are at risk for the disease, but not all dogs with the mutation will develop the disease. Kim Campbell Thornton, sacbee, 10 Jan. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'superoxide dismutase.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

dismutation (simultaneous oxidation and reduction) + -ase

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of superoxide dismutase was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near superoxide dismutase

Cite this Entry

“Superoxide dismutase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superoxide%20dismutase. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

superoxide dismutase

noun
superoxide dis·​mu·​tase -ˈdis-myü-ˌtās How to pronounce superoxide dismutase (audio)
: a metal-containing antioxidant enzyme that reduces potentially harmful free radicals of oxygen formed during normal metabolic cell processes to oxygen and hydrogen peroxide
abbreviation SOD

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