Final answer:
The term for the process where an enzyme converts oxygen to superoxide anion is the formation of reactive oxygen species. Enzymes like superoxide dismutase and peroxidases, often found in peroxisomes, are vital in detoxifying these harmful species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Detoxification of Reactive Oxygen Species
The process in which a membrane-bound oxidase enzyme converts oxygen to superoxide anion (:O₂⁻) is known as the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This process is crucial in cellular metabolism, particularly during oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria, where the electron transport chain (ETC) is active. Here, oxygen can inadvertently accept one electron to form the superoxide radical, a type of ROS. Cells manage these reactive oxygen species using specific detoxifying enzymes. For example, superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that aids in the conversion of superoxide anions to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and oxygen, and peroxidase enzymes further break down hydrogen peroxide into water.
Peroxisomes, which are cellular organelles, house catalase enzymes that also help in the detoxification process. Peroxisomes contribute to reducing the negative effects of ROS by breaking down peroxide molecules and oxidative fatty acids.
These defense mechanisms protect cellular components from oxidative damage, which includes detrimental effects on proteins, DNA, and cellular membranes.