1. An enzyme found in living cells that breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
Usage: biochemistry; used in scientific and medical contexts

Examples

• Catalase is present in nearly all aerobic organisms and helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
• The enzyme catalase catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which is toxic to cells.
• In the laboratory, catalase from liver tissue is often used to demonstrate enzyme activity.
• Catalase levels can be measured to assess cellular health and metabolic function.
• The reaction catalyzed by catalase produces oxygen gas, which can be observed as bubbling in a test tube.