Superoxide Dismutase 1 (SOD1) is an essential enzyme found in the cells of nearly all living organisms. It plays a critical role in protecting cells against oxidative stress by catalyzing the dismutation of superoxide radicals into molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. This process helps to prevent the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can lead to cellular damage and are implicated in various diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1 is particularly important in the mitochondria, where it helps to maintain the balance between the production of energy and the generation of potentially harmful byproducts. The enzyme is encoded by the SOD1 gene and is a homodimeric metalloprotein, with each monomer containing a copper ion and a zinc ion at its active site. Mutations in the SOD1 gene have been linked to the development of familial ALS, highlighting the importance of this enzyme in maintaining cellular health.
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