SOD3 and infection: SOD3, as well as other enzymes related tothe antioxidant system,is important in protecting cells and tissues by direct action againstfree radicals, which are formed in an exacerbated way as a resultof physiological changes often caused by infections and various pathologies.47 Severe liver damage, as occurs in hepatitis,is capable of increasing the formation of superoxide ions and theupregulation of antioxidant enzymes, thus increasing oxidative stress.48