The correct spelling of the word "oxydase" is actually "oxidase" with a single letter "y". This is due to the word's origin, which is from the French word "oxyder" meaning to oxidize. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /ˈɑːksɪdeɪs/. The "x" in the word is pronounced as a "ks" sound and the "s" at the end is pronounced as a "z" sound due to the silent "e".
Oxydase, also spelled oxidase, is an enzymatic protein that catalyzes oxidation reactions within living organisms. It is a type of oxidoreductase enzyme that plays a crucial role in the process of oxidizing various substrates by transferring oxygen atoms or electrons to the reactants. Oxydases are typically involved in redox reactions where oxygen acts as an electron acceptor.
The name "oxydase" is derived from "oxidase" due to its oxidizing nature. This enzyme participates in different metabolic pathways, contributing to the breakdown of molecules and the production of energy. It is involved in various essential physiological processes, including cellular respiration, oxidative stress response, and the detoxification of harmful substances.
Oxydases are found across a wide range of organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. They can be classified based on their substrate specificity or the type of reaction they catalyze. For instance, some common types of oxydases include cytochrome c oxidase, which is involved in the final step of the electron transport chain in mitochondria, and monoamine oxidase, which catalyzes the oxidative deamination of monoamine neurotransmitters.
In summary, an oxydase is an enzyme that facilitates the oxidation of various substrates by transferring oxygen atoms or electrons. Its role is crucial in maintaining cellular functions and energy production within living organisms.
Oxidase.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "oxydase" is derived from the Greek words "oxy" meaning "sharp" or "acid" and "dase" meaning "enzyme". The term was coined in the early 20th century when scientists were studying the processes of oxidation and enzyme reactions. It specifically refers to an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of oxygen atoms from a donor molecule to a substrate during an oxidation reaction.