Tag: Horseradish peroxidase

Over 40 isoforms of the enzyme horseradish peroxidase (HRP) exist within the horseradish plant's roots. This makes it an excellent and well-documented example of a peroxidase, which is a broad class of enzymes that catalyze oxidation reactions using hydrogen peroxide.

Peroxidase is a ubiquitous enzyme widely distributed across the natural world, found in plants, animals, and microorganisms. These versatile enzymes play critical biological roles, such as defending against oxidative stress and aiding in the biosynthesis of essential compounds. From the roots of a common garden vegetable to the immune cells in your body, the sources of peroxidase are surprisingly diverse and numerous.

Horseradish contains up to 10 times more of the powerful cancer-fighting compound glucosinolates than its cruciferous cousin, broccoli. These are the foundational chemicals in horseradish that, when the root is grated, react with enzymes to create the volatile, sinus-clearing intensity it is famous for. Understanding these chemical reactions reveals the science behind this potent condiment.