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Myeloperoxidase

Meaning

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a heme-containing enzyme predominantly found in the azurophilic granules of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. Its primary physiological role is to catalyze the production of hypochlorous acid, a potent antimicrobial agent, as part of the immune system’s defense against pathogens. However, when released excessively during chronic inflammation, MPO can contribute to oxidative stress and tissue damage, particularly in the vascular endothelium. Clinically, elevated MPO levels are recognized as a prognostic biomarker for cardiovascular risk, reflecting a state of chronic immune activation that is often linked to metabolic and hormonal imbalances.