Question Details

Inside the cell, H2O2 clearance is brought about by

Options

A

Peroxisome with enzyme catalase

B

Peroxisome with enzyme amino oxidase

C

Glyoxysome with enzyme catalase

D

Glyoxysome with enzyme isocitrate lyase

Correct Answer :

Peroxisome with enzyme catalase

Solution :

The correct option is: Peroxisome with enzyme catalase.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) in Cells:
During various metabolic processes, particularly cellular respiration and the oxidation of fatty acids, cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). While H2O2 plays roles in cell signaling, it is highly toxic and damaging to cellular components (like DNA, proteins, and lipids) if allowed to accumulate. Therefore, cells must rapidly clear or neutralize it.

2. The Role of the Peroxisome:
The peroxisome is a specialized, membrane-bound organelle found in virtually all eukaryotic cells. It contains enzymes involved in a variety of metabolic reactions, including the oxidation of very-long-chain fatty acids. A major byproduct of these oxidation reactions is hydrogen peroxide.

3. Action of the Catalase Enzyme:
To prevent cellular damage, peroxisomes are heavily packed with the antioxidant enzyme catalase. Catalase specifically targets hydrogen peroxide and catalyzes its decomposition into harmless water and oxygen molecules. The chemical reaction is represented as follows:
2 H 2 O 2 2 H 2 O + O 2

4. Evaluating Other Options:
- Amino oxidase inside peroxisomes actually generates H2O2 rather than clearing it.
- Glyoxysomes are specialized peroxisomes found in plants (particularly in germinating seeds) that house the glyoxylate cycle. While they contain catalase, the primary, universal site for H2O2 clearance in general eukaryotic cells is the standard peroxisome.
- Isocitrate lyase is an enzyme of the glyoxylate cycle in glyoxysomes, not involved in H2O2 detoxification.

Therefore, inside the cell, H2O2 clearance is principally brought about by the peroxisome utilizing the enzyme catalase.

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