Peroxiredoxin I (macrophage 23 kDa stress protein) is highly and widely expressed in the rat nervous system

Expression pattern of peroxiredoxin I (Prx I), a novel stress-inducible 23 kDa protein, initially found in macrophages, was investigated in the normal rat nervous system by western blot and immunohistochemistry. The protein w as widely expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system, particula rly in oligodendroglia and Schwann cells. Weak staining of axons and neurop il suggests neuronal processes also may contain Prx I. Immunostaining of ne uronal cell bodies were not evident. Since Prx I reduces hydrogen peroxide, the widespread glial expression of Prx I indicates that it may play an imp ortant protective role against oxidative damage in the nervous system. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.