Peroxiredoxin I (macrophage 23 kDa stress protein) is highly and widely expressed in the rat nervous system

Expression pattern of peroxiredoxin I (Prx I), a novel stress-inducible 23 kDa protein, initially found in macrophages, was investigated in the normal rat nervous system by western blot and immunohistochemistry. The protein was widely expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system, particularly in oligodendroglia and Schwann cells. Weak staining of axons and neuropil suggests neuronal processes also may contain Prx I. Immunostaining of neuronal cell bodies were not evident. Since Prx I reduces hydrogen peroxide, the widespread glial expression of Prx I indicates that it may play an important protective role against oxidative damage in the nervous system.