OSCILLATIONS IN PEROXIDASE-CATALYZED REACTIONS AND THEIR POTENTIAL FUNCTION IN-VIVO

The peroxidase-oxidase reaction has become a model system for the stud y of oscillations and complex dynamics in biochemical systems. In the present paper we give an overview of previous experimental and theoret ical studies of the peroxidase-oxidase reaction. Recent in vitro exper iments have raised the question whether the reaction also exhibits osc illations and complex dynamics in vivo. To investigate this possibilit y further we have undertaken new experimental studies of the reaction, using horseradish extracts and phenols which are widely distributed i n plants. The results are discussed in light of the occurrence and a p ossible functional role of oscillations and complex dynamics of the pe roxidase-oxidase reaction in vivo. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.