Superoxide Dismutase in Cancer

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) are a group of enzymes that are abundant in cells throughout the body. According to Superglisodin.com, superoxide dismutases inhibit the side-effects of cancer drugs. For example, SODs protect against radiation-induced cell death in humans. SOD enzymes play an important role in repairing cells that have been damaged by cancer. SODs reside both in the epidermis and the dermis of skin. They produce healthy cells called as fibroblasts. Healthy cell growth also stimulates the immune system.

Significance

• According to Journal of Translational Medicine, SOD is an important antioxidant. It not only rejuvenates skin to prevent wrinkles, but also checks the onset of cancer by preventing precancerous cells from becoming aggressive. Superoxide dismutase tends to inactivate free radicals. Free radicals are produced in the body by natural biological processes and can damage cells, proteins and DNA by altering their chemical structure. Free radicals play a vital role in the development of cancer cells within the body. Researchers have taken up a new quest to use this enzyme as an age-blocking agent and have made some progress in this respect.

Types of SODs

• The body has a few types of SODs, including zinc, copper and manganese. The components of superoxide dismutase fight against cell degeneration, which occurs due to free radicals. These different types of enzymes have distinctive roles to play within cells. Cell cytoplasm is protected by the copper and zinc SODs, whereas mitochondria gets protection from manganese enzymes. Other than cancer, serious ailments such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis occur if copper and zinc SODs become deficient.

Use of SODs in Other Ailments

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can be as devastating as cancer. Because the free radicals remain unchallenged, they assault motor nerve ends of the spinal cord and the brain. To halt the unabated progress of this crippling syndrome, researchers are trying to develop synthetic antioxidants that can act as a supplement to SODs. According to Drug3k.com, "SOD is sometimes used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis."

Significance of SODs

• SODs have much more to offer than just preventing abnormal cell growth. A gamut of other health problems can be addressed through judicious use of this enzyme. Prostate problem, ulcers, arthritis, corneal ulcers, inflammations and burn injuries are only some of them. Often physicians prescribe the artificial SODs to control side-effects from cancer drugs and radiation. Dermatologists depend heavily on SODs to recover impaired skin cells damaged due to ultraviolet rays and hyper-pigmentation problems.

SODs for Good Health

• The human body remains fit and healthy with the help of natural antioxidants. These are derived from the food. It is important that we have a balanced diet so the body develops the strength to quell diseases. Other than fruits, SODs are produced in most green vegetables. Broccoli, cabbage, sprouts and wheatgrass all produce natural antioxidants, which not only prevent the building of cancerous cells but also improve people's overall well-being.