SUPEROXIDE-DISMUTASE AND OXYGEN RADICAL NEUROTOXICITY

Although reactive oxygen species are natural metabolic products, they can be toxic to cells and are implicated in some neurodegenerative dis eases. Cytosolic Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase normally defends against d amage by reactive oxygen species; however, mutant forms of the enzyme might instead contribute to damage of motor neurons in some amyotrophi c lateral sclerosis patients. Possible mechanisms of oxidative injury to neurons are discussed with reference to cytosolic Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase mutations and other factors which might enhance oxygen radic al toxicity.