Evaluation of peroxidase activity in natural antioxidants

CHED 936

Merissa L. Scozio, rissyscoze@hotmail.com, ACS Student Affiliates, Waynesburg College, 51 West College Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370, Marietta F. Wright, mwright@waynesburg.edu, Department of Biology, Waynesburg College, 51 West College St., Waynesburg, PA 15370, and Robert B. LaCount, rlacount@waynesburg.edu, Department of Chemistry, Waynesburg College, 51 West College St, Waynesburg, PA 15370.
Oxidative stress, caused by the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is linked to several cardiovascular and degenerative diseases. Natural antioxidants are found in certain fruits and vegetables and may have some benefits in preventing oxidative stress. Peroxidase is one the prime antioxidant enzymes that catalyzes the oxidation of several substrates via hydrogen peroxide. This study examines peroxidase activity and the effects of freezing and storage on enzyme function. A UV-Vis spectrometer is utilized in the analysis of peroxidase activity. Spectra are evaluated, and the results provide useful information regarding peroxidase activity in certain fruits and vegetables.