REVIEW: Catalase and Superoxide Dismutase: Distribution, Properties, and Physiological Role in Cells of Strict Anaerobes

A. L. Brioukhanov^* and A. I. Netrusov

Department of Microbiology, Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119992, Russia; fax: (7-095) 939-2763; E-mail: brjuchanov@mail.ru

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received March 10, 2004; Revision received May 20, 2004

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This review considers the distribution of the main enzymes of antioxidative defense, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, in various groups of strictly anaerobic microorganisms: bacteria of the genus Clostridium, Bacteroides, sulfate-reducing and acetogenic bacteria, methanogenic archaea, etc. Molecular and biochemical properties of purified Fe-containing SODs, cambialistic SODs, and heme catalases are presented. The physiological role and origin of the enzymes of antioxidative defense in strict anaerobes are discussed. Physiological responses (induction of SOD and catalase) to factors provoking oxidative stress in the cells of strict anaerobes able to maintain viability under aerobic conditions are also considered.

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KEY WORDS: anaerobes, catalase, superoxide dismutase, oxidative stress

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