P22phox

p22phox Protein, also known as the human neutrophil cytochrome b light chain (CYBA), is an essential component of the membrane-associated enzyme phagocyte NADPH-oxidase This enzyme uses NADH or NADPH as the electron donor for the one electron reduction of oxygen to produce superoxide anion, a reactive oxygen species (ROS), and a functionally important step for the antimicrobial activity of phagocytic cells. p22phox is also expressed in many other human cells such as endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, including those within the coronary arteries. Specific polymorphisms of the CYBA gene have been identified that are associated with a decreased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).