Which enzyme action contributes to honey's antimicrobial effectiveness by generating hydrogen peroxide?
Answer
Glucose oxidase
Honey employs a multi-faceted strategy to achieve its notable antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, one key element of which involves the production of hydrogen peroxide. This active agent is generated through the action of a specific enzyme present in honey called glucose oxidase. This enzyme catalyzes a reaction involving the available glucose and water, resulting in the creation of hydrogen peroxide, which is a well-known antiseptic agent. This mechanism is one of four core factors, alongside low water activity, low pH, and phenolic compounds, that establish honey's effectiveness as a natural antimicrobial.
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