Myeloperoxidase (MPO) has a crucial role to play in the destruction of various microorganisms and foreign cells, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, red cells, and malignant and nonmalignant nucleated cells. MPO catalyzes the production of number of reactive oxidant species (ROS) th at influence tissue damage during inflammation. MPO and its downstream inflammatory pathways function as a potent therapeutic target for prophylaxis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. MPO catalyzes the synthesis of polychlorinated dibenzo(p)dioxins and furans (PCDD/F) from precursors such as chlorophenols in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).
