Formulations Based on the
SOD-CAT Enzyme System
Shielding You from
Oxygen Pressure
During the metabolic process of the human body, reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anion (O2•−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and hydroxyl radical (•OH) are inevitably produced. These free radicals have high reactivity and can attack lipids, proteins, and DNA in cells, causing oxidative damage. Once an oxidative stress state occurs and persists, it may trigger various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, etc., and even accelerate the aging process. Therefore, maintaining an antioxidant balance within the body and eliminating excessive ROS is an important biological issue for maintaining human health.
During the cellular metabolic process, mitochondria are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The leakage of electrons in the electron transport chain leads to the generation of superoxide anions, which are then converted into hydrogen peroxide under the catalysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Hydrogen peroxide has strong permeability and, if not promptly removed, can participate in the Fenton reaction to generate more toxic hydroxyl radicals, causing severe damage to the cells. Cells naturally possess multiple antioxidant enzyme protection systems, among which:
• Superoxide dismutase (SOD): Converts superoxide anions into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen, serving as the first line of defense against ROS.
• Catalase (CAT): Decomposes hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, effectively reducing the toxicity of H2O2 to the cells.
These two enzymes work together to construct an important antioxidant network system within the cells, protecting the body from oxidative damage.
To address the issue of excessive accumulation of oxidative free radicals in the human body and the insufficient antioxidant capacity, based on the synthetic biology strategy, we constructed expression systems for two key enzymes, SOD and CAT, in the model microorganism Escherichia coli using heterologous expression technology. Gene screening and synthesis: Select and optimize the sequences of SOD and CAT genes and conduct gene synthesis and vector construction. We achieved efficient and stable expression of both enzymes in Escherichia coli. In vitro experiments confirmed the significant capabilities of the dual enzyme system in eliminating oxidative free radicals and resisting lipid oxidation. Our project is to develop stable and highly efficient antioxidant preparations to improve related oxidative health issues in humans.
• Our goal is to build a stable and efficient expression system for SOD and CAT enzymes, so we can produce antioxidant enzyme preparations that are both highly pure and highly active.
• We aim to better understand how these two enzymes work together under various conditions to enhance antioxidant effects, offering valuable insights for improving antioxidant strategies.
• We’re committed to developing new antioxidants that can support the treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases, help improve cellular function, slow down aging, and contribute to overall well-being.
• Looking ahead, we hope to use this research platform as a foundation to explore multi-enzyme antioxidant systems, paving the way for more effective and smarter solutions in cellular protection.
We are iGEM's ReNeGene team, a R&D team focusing on the innovative application of synthetic biology technology in the field of beauty and health. Relying on cutting-edge bioengineering methods, we are committed to developing efficient and sustainable active ingredients to address the limitations of traditional skincare products in terms of antioxidant and anti-aging.
