Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Flow Cytometric Measurement Of ROS Production In Macrophages In Response To FcγR Cross-linking
Published on: March 7, 2019
Superoxide, superoxide dismutase and the respiratory burst
1Divisions of Veterinary Biology and Clinical Studies and Pathobiology and Public Practice, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061.
Abstract:
Phagocytes undergo a sharp burst of oxygen consumption when engulfing bacteria. This oxygen is enzymatically reduced to toxic metabolites which are essential to the bactericidal action of the cell. Oxygen metabolites formed in this burst as well as other intermediates formed in biological reduction reactions do not selectively reserve their toxicity for microorganisms. Cells help to guard their organelles against the toxic effects of oxygen by producing intracellular enzymes such as superoxide dismutase. Though superoxide dismutase is found in relatively high concentrations inside cells, there are only small amounts in extracellular fluids. This may account for some of the local tissue damage surrounding aggregates of neutrophils in inflammatory reactions. A pharmacological preparation of superoxide dismutase has shown efficacy in preventing some of the pathological changes seen in degenerative arthritis.
Related Concept Videos
The Supercomplexes in the Crista Membrane
Electron Transport Chain: Complex III and IV
Oxygen Requirements and Growth Patterns
The Electron Transport Chain
Inhibitors of the electron transport chain
Rotenone, a widely used pesticide, prevents electron transfer from Fe-S cluster to ubiquinone or Q in...
Peroxisomes
Gas Exchange and Transport

