What is the function of superoxide dismutase in bacteria?

What is the function of superoxide dismutase in bacteria?

• A. To initiate cell division
• B. To protect against reactive oxygen species
• C. To assist in metabolic processes
• D. To help in nutrient absorption

Answer: (B)

Superoxide dismutase plays a crucial role in protecting cells from the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide radicals. These radicals can be generated as byproducts of aerobic metabolism and can cause significant damage to cellular structures, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. By catalyzing the conversion of superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide and molecular oxygen, superoxide dismutase helps to mitigate oxidative stress in bacterial cells. This enzymatic action is vital for the survival of bacteria in oxygen-rich environments, where the generation of superoxide radicals is more likely. In contrast, while other options mention functions like initiating cell division, assisting in metabolic processes, and helping in nutrient absorption, these functions are not directly related to the protective role that superoxide dismutase plays against oxidative damage. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes its protective function against reactive oxygen species, which is critical for the health and viability of bacterial cells.

Superoxide dismutase plays a crucial role in protecting cells from the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide radicals. These radicals can be generated as byproducts of aerobic metabolism and can cause significant damage to cellular structures, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. By catalyzing the conversion of superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide and molecular oxygen, superoxide dismutase helps to mitigate oxidative stress in bacterial cells. This enzymatic action is vital for the survival of bacteria in oxygen-rich environments, where the generation of superoxide radicals is more likely.

In contrast, while other options mention functions like initiating cell division, assisting in metabolic processes, and helping in nutrient absorption, these functions are not directly related to the protective role that superoxide dismutase plays against oxidative damage. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes its protective function against reactive oxygen species, which is critical for the health and viability of bacterial cells.