Peroxidase, catalase and SOD-like activities of Prussian blue nanoparticles

What is it about?

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are chemically reactive species containing oxygen. ROS include hydroxyl peroxide (H2O2), superoxide (O2•-), hydroxyl radical (•OH), singlet oxygen (1O2). In a biological system, ROS are a byproduct of normal oxygen metabolism and play important roles in cell signaling and homeostasis. In some conditions, ROS level can increase dramatically, which may result in significant damage to cells. This phenomenon is known as “oxidative stress”. Oxidative stress is associated with many kinds of diseases, such as inflammation, cancer, diabetes, etc. Peroxidase, catalase and SOD are three most important ROS scavenging enzymes in human body. This study found Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) possess peroxidase-, catalase- and SOD-like activities, making them good candidates for ROS scavenging.

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Why is it important?

Our findings show that Prussian blue nanoparticles possess peroxidase-, catalase- and SOD-like activities and can be used to treat ROS related diseases. Also, electron transfer mechanism was proposed to explain the catalytic ability of Prussian blue nanoparticles.

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