SOD1

SOD1, or superoxide dismutase 1, is an enzyme in our cells that helps protect against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals, which are produced during normal activity like energy production. It works by neutralizing superoxide radicals, making them less reactive and reducing cellular stress. Mutations in the SOD1 gene can lead to the enzyme malfunctioning or misfolding, which is linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease). Understanding SOD1 is important for grasping how cellular defenses work and how their failure can contribute to disease.