Catalase catalyzes the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, helping protect cells from oxidative damage.

BQC Catalase Activity Assay Kit is based on the peroxidatic activity of the enzyme. In the presence of MeOH and H2O2 the enzyme catalyzes the generation of formaldehyde. Once produced, formaldehyde is detected through its reaction with a specific chromophore. This chromophore undergoes a color change from colorless to purple (λmax 540 nm) upon oxidation by formaldehyde. Catalase activity can be, therefore, determined by measuring the formaldehyde generation at 540 nm.