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Basic Technical IVT Commonly tested

Antioxidant enzyme scavenging capacity

noun

Pronunciation: /ˌæntɪˈɒksɪdənt ˈɛndʒaɪm ˈskævɪndʒɪŋ kəˈpæsɪti/

The combined ability of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase to neutralize reactive oxygen species generated during abiotic stress. High scavenging capacity reduces oxidative damage to cellular components.

Plain English

The total power of protective enzymes to remove harmful free radicals created during plant stress.

Etymology & History

Origin languageGreek, Latin, English
Rootanti (against) + oxidant (oxidizing agent) + enzyme (Greek zyme, ferment) + scavenge (from Middle English) + capacity
First recorded use1990s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"Heat-stressed rice plants with elevated antioxidant enzyme scavenging capacity maintained photosynthetic rates better than susceptible varieties."

Style guide notes: Use full term on first mention; can abbreviate to AESC thereafter; maintain hyphenation in compound modifiers.

Also known as

ROS-detoxification capacity oxidative-defense capacity

Contrasted with

oxidative stress susceptibility

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Which enzymes contribute most to antioxidant scavenging capacity?

SOD, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione peroxidase are primary contributors to ROS detoxification.

How is antioxidant enzyme scavenging capacity measured?

Measured using spectrophotometric assays quantifying enzyme activity against specific ROS substrates in plant extracts.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Critical for evaluating stress-tolerance mechanisms in breeding programs and physiological stress studies.

Required skill level: Mid

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