Catalase, Aspergillus niger

Research area: Cell Signaling

Catalase, Aspergillus niger, is a native, long-acting, extremely stable form of catalase that is active over a wide pH range (pH 1 - 12). Composed of four protein subunits, each containing a heme group bound to its active site, it is one of the most important antioxidant enzymes present in almost all aerobic organisms.

Catalase may be used in:

• Industrial applications for eliminating hydrogen peroxide, which is utilized as an oxidizing, bleaching, or sterilizing agent.
• Food industry and egg processing, often in conjunction with other enzymes.
• Food preservation methods in combination with glucose oxidase, where superoxide dismutase produces H2O2, which is subsequently eliminated by catalase.
• Preservation process, along with glucose oxidase.

Catalase is responsible for breaking down two hydrogen peroxide molecules into one oxygen molecule and two water molecules in a two-step reaction. It plays a crucial role in regulating the cellular level and catabolism of hydrogen peroxide which in turn shields the cells from oxidative damage. Its malfunctioning and deficiency is linked to various diseases, including vitiligo, diabetes mellitus, anemia, cardiovascular diseases, bipolar disorders, Wilson disease, certain dermatological disorders, Alzheimer′s disease, hypertension, and schizophrenia. Anomalies in catalase activity are related to acatalasemia or Takahara disease, a rare genetic disorder.

Toxicity: Standard Handling (A)

One unit is defined as the amount of enzyme that will decompose 1.0 µmol H₂O₂ per min at 30°C, pH 7.0.

Following reconstitution, aliquot and freeze (-20°C). Stock solutions are stable for up to 3 months at -20°C.

Note: 1 KU = 1000 units

CALBIOCHEM is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany