Carbonic Anhydrase

Carbonic anhydrase is a family of zinc metalloenzymes that catalyze the rapid reversible hydration of carbon dioxide to form carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate and a proton. These enzymes are found in various cellular locations, including the cytosol, mitochondria, and plasma membrane, across many tissues. Their primary physiological roles involve pH regulation, fluid and electrolyte balance, and carbon dioxide transport and excretion throughout the body.