oxidases

oxidases, in biochemistry, enzymes that catalyze reactions that directly involve molecular oxygen (see oxidation and reduction). Some utilize flavin coenzymes derived from riboflavin (see vitamin B₂). Others oxidize compounds by the removal of hydrogen, such as alcohol dehydrogenase's catalysis of ethanol to acetaldehyde. Copper-containing oxidases catalyze a variety of biological oxidations.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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