The physiological functions of NOX family enzymes, include:
- host defense
- post-translational processing of proteins
- cellular signalling
- regulation of gene expression
- cell differentiation
NOX enzymes also contribute to a wide range of pathological processes.
NOX deficiency may lead to:
- immunosuppression
- lack of otoconogenesis (the generation of calcium carbonate crystals, which play a role in controlling the hair cells of the ear, therefore hearing)
- hypothyroidism
- Increased NOX activity also contributes to a large number or pathologies, in particular metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and neurodegeneration.