Peroxiredoxin VI in human respiratory system.

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) constitute a novel family of antioxidant proteins, which specifically prevent enzymes from metal-catalyzed oxidation. The localization of a member of the mono-cystein subfamily of Prxs, Prx VI in human respiratory system and its antioxidant properties were investigated. By immunoblotting, the Prx VI was found to be present in human respiratory epithelium. Immunostaining with rabbit polyclonal antibody raised against the Prx VI revealed that the said protein was present in apical areas and mucus of all respiratory airways from trachea to bronchioles. Immunodepletion of the Prx VI profoundly decreased the antioxidant activity of the respiratory epithelium extract.