Distribution of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase activities among Treponema pallidum and other spirochetes.

Representative members of Spirochaetales were surveyed for their content of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and peroxidase activities. Only Leptospira exhibited peroxidase activity. Obligately anaerobic cultivable Treponema and Spirochaeta possessed no SOD or peroxidative capabilities.