Functional Longevity

Catalase Enzyme Benefits: Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) Decomposition & Grey Hair

Catalase Enzyme Benefits: Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) Decomposition & Grey Hair

Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme found in nearly all living organisms that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Located primarily in the liver, red blood cells, and cellular peroxisomes, catalase is one of the most efficient enzymes known, converting millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules per second to protect cells from oxidative damage.[Evidence: D][1]

💡 What You Need to Know Right Away

  • Longevity potential: Mice with mitochondrial-targeted catalase (mCAT) showed lifespan extension of 17-21% in controlled studies.[Evidence: C][4]
  • Measurable results: A 12-week RCT found plant-based supplements significantly elevated plasma catalase concentrations (+6.1 vs -10.3 nmol/min/mL, p=0.038).[Evidence: B][5]
  • Disease connection: Catalase deficiency is linked to diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, vitiligo, hypertension, and cancer.[Evidence: D][2]
  • Exercise boosts levels: Moderate-to-low intensity exercise at least 3x/week for over 16 weeks most effectively enhances antioxidant enzyme activity.[Evidence: A][10]

If you have been researching antioxidants for healthy aging, you have likely encountered catalase. This powerful enzyme plays a critical role in protecting your cells from hydrogen peroxide, a byproduct of normal metabolism that can damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes when left unchecked.

Many people become interested in catalase after noticing premature gray hair or learning about oxidative stress and its connection to aging. It is common to feel overwhelmed by the scientific terminology and conflicting information about supplements. This guide synthesizes findings from 13 peer-reviewed studies to help you understand what catalase does, whether supplementation may benefit you, and what the research actually shows.

You will learn about catalase's mechanism of action, evidence-based benefits, proper dosage based on clinical trials, safety considerations, and practical ways to support your body's natural catalase production.

❓ Quick Answers

What is catalase enzyme?

Catalase is an antioxidant enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water and oxygen. It is found in nearly all aerobic organisms and is concentrated in the liver, kidneys, and red blood cells. Catalase is classified as EC 1.11.1.6 and contains a heme group essential for its catalytic function.[Evidence: D][1]

How does catalase work in the body?

Catalase efficiently catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen through a two-step reaction.[Evidence: D][3] It works alongside superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) as part of the cellular antioxidant defense system, neutralizing reactive oxygen species before they damage cellular components.[Evidence: D][2]

What are the benefits of catalase?

Research suggests catalase provides cellular protection from oxidative stress, may support healthy aging through mitochondrial protection, and plays a role in preventing oxidative damage linked to age-associated degenerative diseases.[Evidence: D][2] Mitochondrial-targeted catalase extended lifespan 17-21% in animal models.[Evidence: C][4]

How much catalase should I take daily?

The only human RCT used 45 ml daily of a plant-based liquid supplement for 12 weeks, which significantly elevated plasma catalase concentrations (+6.1 nmol/min/mL compared to placebo).[Evidence: B][5] Optimal dosage for different formulations has not been established. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Is catalase safe to take as a supplement?

Catalase demonstrated therapeutic efficacy without notable toxicity in research applications.[Evidence: D][7] However, oral bioavailability remains questionable because gastric acid denatures the enzyme at pH below 5.[Evidence: D][3] No significant adverse effects were reported in the 12-week human trial.[Evidence: B][5]

Can catalase increase lifespan?

In animal studies, mitochondrial-targeted catalase (mCAT) mice showed lifespan extension of 17-21%.[Evidence: C][4] Conversely, catalase-deficient mice exhibited accelerated aging at 53 weeks with lysosomal dysfunction.[Evidence: C][12] Human longevity benefits from oral supplements have not been established.

What happens if you have catalase deficiency?

Catalase deficiency (acatalasemia) is a genetic condition. Research identified four novel catalase gene mutations associated with diabetes and microcytic anemia.[Evidence: C][9] Catalase deficiency is also linked to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, vitiligo, hypertension, and cancer susceptibility.[Evidence: D][2]

Bio-Active Compound

Catalase: The Cellular Shield

Discover how this master enzyme protects your body from oxidative stress and powers your longevity.

🔬 How Does Catalase Work?

Understanding how catalase protects your cells requires a brief look at oxidative stress. Your mitochondria, the powerhouses generating cellular energy, are also primary sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS). One of these byproducts is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).[Evidence: C][4]

Think of catalase as a highly efficient cleanup crew working inside your cells. While hydrogen peroxide at low levels serves as a signaling molecule, excess amounts act like corrosive acid, damaging DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. Catalase intercepts this threat before damage occurs.

The enzyme works through a two-step catalytic cycle. First, one hydrogen peroxide molecule oxidizes the iron center of catalase's heme group. Second, another hydrogen peroxide molecule reduces this intermediate, releasing water and oxygen as harmless products.[Evidence: D][3] This reaction occurs millions of times per second, making catalase one of the most efficient enzymes known.

Catalase is a key enzyme in hydrogen peroxide and reactive nitrogen species metabolism, with implications for cancer treatment approaches since cancer cells show altered catalase expression with elevated ROS production.[Evidence: D][1]

Imagine your antioxidant system as a relay race. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) runs the first leg, converting superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide. Catalase and glutathione peroxidase then run the second leg, converting that hydrogen peroxide into harmless water. If any runner stumbles, oxidative damage accumulates.

Research demonstrates that mitochondria are both primary ROS sources and primary targets of ROS damage.[Evidence: C][4] This is why mitochondrial-targeted catalase showed such promising results in animal longevity studies. The enzyme was delivered precisely where it was needed most.

Catalase also regulates cytokine production and protects against oxidative injury, demonstrating effects on inflammatory responses and viral replication in research settings.[Evidence: D][7]

📊 Dosage and How to Use

Catalase supplement dosing remains an area with limited clinical evidence. The majority of research uses animal models or measures endogenous catalase activity rather than testing oral supplementation in humans.

Purpose/Condition Dosage Duration Evidence
Antioxidant capacity / Plasma catalase elevation 45 ml plant-based liquid daily 12 weeks [B][5]
Oral health / Salivary catalase Matcha or green tea twice daily 1 month [B][11]
Antioxidant enzyme activity (via exercise) Moderate-to-low intensity exercise 3x/week >16 weeks [A][10]

Important Dosage Considerations

The 12-week randomized controlled trial in healthy adults aged 25-45 found that plasma catalase concentrations were significantly elevated in the supplement group (+6.1 nmol/min/mL) compared to placebo (-10.3 nmol/min/mL), with p=0.038.[Evidence: B][5] However, the study noted no significant impact on weight, glucose, or lipid markers.

A key challenge with oral catalase supplements is bioavailability. Catalase is a protein that may be denatured by stomach acid (optimum pH approximately 7.0) before absorption.[Evidence: D][3] This has led researchers to explore advanced formulations and delivery systems to overcome these limitations.

Therapeutic applications of catalase range from direct enzyme supplementation to gene therapy approaches, but enzyme stability, bioavailability, and targeted tissue delivery remain significant hurdles.[Evidence: D][3]

⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings

Side Effects

Catalase demonstrated therapeutic efficacy without notable toxicity in research applications.[Evidence: D][7] The 12-week human RCT reported no significant adverse effects from daily supplementation.[Evidence: B][5] Specific side effect frequency data for oral catalase supplements has not been established in controlled studies.

Genetic Considerations

Catalase gene polymorphisms may influence disease risk. The CAT-262 C/T polymorphism T/T genotype was associated with elevated breast cancer risk with an odds ratio of 3.45 (95% CI 2.17-5.50, p<0.0001).[Evidence: C][6] Individuals with certain genetic variants may have altered catalase activity.

Disease Associations with Deficiency

Catalase deficiency is linked to multiple conditions including diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, vitiligo, hypertension, and cancer.[Evidence: D][2] Four novel catalase gene mutations were identified in patients with diabetes and microcytic anemia.[Evidence: C][9]

Aging and Cellular Effects

Catalase-deficient mice exhibited accelerated aging phenotype at 53 weeks, developing leaky lysosomes with progressive cathepsin D cytosolic accumulation. This lysosomal dysfunction inhibited autophagosome formation and triggered mTORC1 activation.[Evidence: C][12]

Drug Interactions

No significant drug interactions for oral catalase supplements were reported in the literature reviewed (2015-2026). However, catalase activity may theoretically be affected by medications that alter oxidative status. Inform your healthcare provider of all supplements you take.

🥗 Practical Ways to Support Catalase Activity

How to Use This in Your Daily Life

Strategy 1: Exercise for Catalase Enhancement

  • Protocol: Moderate-to-low intensity exercise at least 3x/week[10]
  • Duration: More than 16 weeks for optimal antioxidant enzyme enhancement[10]
  • Evidence: Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs[Evidence: A][10]
  • Note: Women may require greater exercise effort than men for comparable antioxidant enzyme increases[10]

Strategy 2: Dietary Antioxidant Support

  • Protocol: Matcha or green tea consumption twice daily[11]
  • Duration: 1 month showed measurable effects on salivary catalase[11]
  • Outcome: 40.6% of gingivitis patients achieved healthy gingiva after tea consumption[Evidence: B][11]
  • Additional benefit: Improved total antioxidant capacity and reduced IL-1β levels

Strategy 3: Supplement Consideration

  • If considering supplements: Plant-based liquid formulations showed efficacy in one RCT (45 ml daily for 12 weeks)[5]
  • Expected result: Elevated plasma catalase concentrations (+6.1 nmol/min/mL vs placebo)[Evidence: B][5]
  • Limitation: No significant impact on weight, glucose, or lipid markers was observed

Rescue Compounds for Catalase Deficiency Effects

Research in catalase-deficient mice found that N-acetyl-L-cysteine and rapamycin rescued leaky lysosomes and aging phenotypes.[Evidence: C][12] These findings suggest potential therapeutic approaches, though human translation requires further study.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Expecting immediate results: The successful RCT ran for 12 weeks before showing significant plasma catalase elevation.[5]
  • Ignoring bioavailability: Oral catalase faces gastric acid denaturation challenges. Consider whether the supplement form addresses this issue.[3]
  • Neglecting exercise: Meta-analysis evidence supports exercise as the most strongly evidenced method to enhance antioxidant enzyme activity.[10]
  • Inconsistent use: Studies showing benefits used consistent daily protocols over extended periods.

⚖️ Catalase vs. Other Antioxidant Enzymes

Catalase works as part of a coordinated antioxidant defense system. Understanding how it compares to other key enzymes helps clarify its unique role.

Feature Catalase (CAT) Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX)
Primary Substrate Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) Superoxide radical (O2•−) H2O2 and lipid peroxides
Products Water + Oxygen H2O2 + Oxygen Water + Oxidized glutathione
Primary Location Peroxisomes, cytoplasm Cytoplasm, mitochondria Cytoplasm, mitochondria
Cofactor Required Heme (iron) Copper, zinc, or manganese Selenium, glutathione
Longevity Research mCAT: 17-21% lifespan extension[4] Variable results Variable results

The three enzymes work sequentially. SOD converts superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide. Then catalase and GPX compete to neutralize that hydrogen peroxide. Catalase is particularly efficient at high H2O2 concentrations, while GPX handles lower concentrations and also addresses lipid peroxides that catalase cannot.[Evidence: D][2]

Meta-analysis found that resistance training was particularly effective for glutathione peroxidase activity, while moderate-to-low intensity aerobic exercise enhanced overall antioxidant enzyme activity including catalase.[Evidence: A][10]

What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)

What Research Suggests

  • Mitochondrial-targeted catalase extends lifespan 17-21% in mice and showed benefits across metabolic, cardiac, muscular, and neurological disease models (based on multiple animal studies).[Evidence: C][4]
  • Plant-based supplementation elevated plasma catalase concentrations by +6.1 nmol/min/mL versus -10.3 nmol/min/mL for placebo (p=0.038) in a 12-week RCT with healthy adults aged 25-45.[Evidence: B][5]
  • Moderate-to-low intensity exercise at least 3x/week for over 16 weeks most effectively enhances antioxidant enzyme activity (systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs).[Evidence: A][10]
  • Catalase deficiency correlates with multiple age-associated conditions including diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, vitiligo, hypertension, and cancer susceptibility (multiple reviews and case studies).[Evidence: D][2]
  • Tea consumption (matcha or green tea twice daily for 1 month) improved salivary catalase and oral health outcomes, with 40.6% achieving healthy gingiva.[Evidence: B][11]

What's NOT Yet Proven

  • Optimal oral supplement dosage not established: Only one human RCT exists (45 ml plant-based liquid). Capsule dosing, activity units (CatU), and formulation comparisons have not been studied.
  • Gray hair reversal unproven in humans: Despite mechanistic rationale (H2O2 accumulation, melanocyte oxidative stress), no human trial has demonstrated oral catalase reverses graying.
  • Long-term safety data lacking: The longest human study was 12 weeks. Safety beyond this duration is not established.
  • Populations not studied: Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children, and individuals with chronic diseases were not included in supplementation trials.
  • Bioavailability remains questionable: Whether oral catalase survives gastric acid and reaches target tissues intact is not conclusively demonstrated.
  • Longevity translation: The 17-21% lifespan extension in mCAT mice used genetic modification to target catalase to mitochondria. This does not translate directly to oral supplements.

Where Caution Is Needed

  • Enzyme stability and bioavailability present significant challenges for oral supplementation. Advanced formulations and delivery systems are needed to overcome current limitations.[Evidence: D][3]
  • The CAT-262 C/T genetic polymorphism (T/T genotype) is associated with elevated breast cancer risk (OR 3.45). Individuals with this variant may have altered baseline catalase activity.[Evidence: C][6]
  • Catalase deficiency accelerates aging through lysosomal dysfunction and mTORC1 activation, but whether supplementation can reverse these effects in humans is unknown.[Evidence: C][12]
  • ROS function as signaling molecules with both beneficial and adverse effects. Complete elimination of hydrogen peroxide may not be desirable.[Evidence: C][4]

Should YOU Try This?

Best suited for: Adults interested in supporting antioxidant defenses, particularly those who cannot exercise due to physical limitations. The RCT enrolled healthy adults aged 25-45.[Evidence: B][5]

Not recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women (no safety data), children (not studied), individuals with serious health conditions (insufficient data), or those expecting quick results for gray hair reversal (not proven).

Realistic timeline: 12 weeks minimum for measurable plasma catalase elevation based on the human RCT.[Evidence: B][5] Exercise benefits require over 16 weeks of consistent moderate activity.[Evidence: A][10]

When to consult a professional: Before starting supplementation if you take medications, have health conditions, are considering supplementation during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you experience any adverse effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of catalase for hair?

Research has identified a connection between hydrogen peroxide accumulation and hair graying. ATM protein was identified as a key oxidative stress sensor in melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). ATM expression correlates with pigmentation status in hair follicles, and its expression increases when melanocytes are exposed to hydrogen peroxide. Blocking ATM kinase activity impairs melanocyte survival under oxidative stress. While this establishes a mechanistic link between oxidative stress and hair pigmentation, direct evidence that oral catalase supplementation reverses gray hair in humans has not been established in controlled trials.

Does catalase reverse gray hair?

The scientific rationale exists: hydrogen peroxide buildup in hair follicles can bleach melanin from the inside out, and reduced catalase activity with age contributes to this accumulation. However, no human clinical trials have demonstrated that oral catalase supplements reverse gray hair. The challenge is bioavailability. Catalase is a protein that stomach acid may denature before it reaches hair follicles. ATM expression correlates with pigmentation status in follicles, suggesting oxidative stress plays a role in graying. Realistic expectations are warranted until human evidence emerges.

What is the difference between catalase and glutathione?

Catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) both neutralize hydrogen peroxide but through different mechanisms. Catalase converts H2O2 directly into water and oxygen without requiring additional cofactors beyond its heme group. Glutathione peroxidase requires reduced glutathione and selenium to function, producing oxidized glutathione as a byproduct. GPX can also neutralize lipid peroxides that catalase cannot address. The two enzymes work at different concentration ranges: catalase excels at high H2O2 levels, while GPX handles lower concentrations more efficiently.

What are the side effects of catalase supplements?

Catalase demonstrated therapeutic efficacy without notable toxicity in research applications. The 12-week human RCT using a plant-based supplement reported no significant adverse effects. Specific side effect frequencies have not been established because large-scale human trials are lacking. The primary concern is not toxicity but rather whether the enzyme survives gastric digestion intact. Catalase is GRAS for food processing applications. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

How do you increase catalase production naturally?

The strongest evidence supports exercise. A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found that moderate-to-low intensity exercise at least 3 times per week for more than 16 weeks was most effective for enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity. Women may require greater exercise effort than men for comparable increases. Dietary approaches also show promise: matcha and green tea consumption twice daily for one month improved salivary catalase and total antioxidant capacity in a randomized trial. N-acetyl-L-cysteine rescued catalase-related cellular defects in animal models.

What diseases are caused by lack of catalase?

Catalase deficiency, known as acatalasemia, is a genetic condition caused by mutations in the CAT gene. Research identified four novel catalase gene mutations in patients from Hungary who presented with diabetes and microcytic anemia. Broader reviews link catalase deficiency to diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, vitiligo, hypertension, and increased cancer susceptibility. Catalase-deficient mice showed accelerated aging at 53 weeks with lysosomal dysfunction.

What is the best time to take catalase?

Optimal timing for catalase supplementation has not been established in clinical research. The 12-week human RCT that showed significant plasma catalase elevation used daily dosing but did not specify timing relative to meals. Given that catalase is a protein susceptible to gastric acid denaturation, some practitioners suggest taking it between meals when stomach acid is lower. However, this is theoretical rather than evidence-based. Follow product label instructions or healthcare provider guidance.

Can you take catalase with other vitamins?

No specific interactions between oral catalase supplements and vitamins have been documented in the literature reviewed. Catalase works alongside other antioxidants in the body's defense system, so combining it with vitamins C, E, or selenium-containing supplements is theoretically compatible. The meta-analysis on exercise and antioxidant enzymes included various populations without noting supplement interactions. However, comprehensive interaction studies are lacking. Inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take to ensure appropriate monitoring.

How long does it take for catalase to work?

The timeline depends on the outcome measured. The human RCT showed significant plasma catalase elevation after 12 weeks of daily supplementation. For exercise-induced enhancement, the meta-analysis found that protocols lasting more than 16 weeks were most effective for increasing antioxidant enzyme activity. The tea consumption study showed oral health improvements after 1 month. Expect weeks to months rather than immediate effects for any catalase-boosting intervention.

What is acatalasemia?

Acatalasemia (also called Takahara disease) is a rare genetic condition characterized by very low catalase activity in the blood. It results from mutations in the CAT gene. Research examining 617 patients identified seven individuals with four novel catalase exon mutations, confirming the genetic basis of reduced blood catalase activity. Affected individuals may develop oral ulcers, have increased susceptibility to diabetes, and show microcytic anemia. The condition demonstrates how critical adequate catalase function is for metabolic health and provides insight into why researchers study catalase supplementation.

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At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:


  • [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
  • [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
  • [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
  • [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline

Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.


This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.

References

  1. 1 . Catalase, a remarkable enzyme: targeting the oldest antioxidant enzyme to find a new cancer treatment approach, Glorieux C, Calderon PB. Biological Chemistry, 2017; 398(10):1095-1108. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
  2. 2 . Role of Catalase in Oxidative Stress- and Age-Associated Degenerative Diseases, Nandi A, Yan LJ, Jana CK, Das N. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2019; 2019:9613090. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
  3. 3 . Exploring Therapeutic Potential of Catalase: Strategies in Disease Prevention and Management, Anwar S, et al. Biomolecules, 2024; 14(6):697. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
  4. 4 . Mitochondrial-Targeted Catalase: Extended Longevity and the Roles in Various Disease Models, Dai DF, et al. Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science, 2017; 146:203-241. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]
  5. 5 . Plant-Based Nutraceutical Increases Plasma Catalase Activity in Healthy Participants: A Small Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Proof of Concept Trial, Sweazea KL, et al. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2017; 14(2):200-213. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
  6. 6 . Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase SNPs and their Association with Breast Cancer Risk, Datkhile KD, et al. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 2024; 25(1):175-184. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]
  7. 7 . An Antioxidant Enzyme Therapeutic for COVID-19, Qin M, et al. Advanced Materials, 2020; 32(43):e2004901. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: D]
  8. 8 . Mitochondrial antioxidants abate SARS-COV-2 pathology in mice, Guarnieri JW, et al. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences U.S.A., 2024; 121(30):e2321972121. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
  9. 9 . Further acatalasemia mutations in human patients from Hungary with diabetes and microcytic anemia, Nagy T, et al. Mutation Research, 2015; 772:10-14. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]
  10. 10 . Effects of exercise on different antioxidant enzymes and related indicators: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Xie Y, et al. Scientific Reports, 2025; 15(1):12518. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: A]
  11. 11 . Salivary levels of catalase, total antioxidant capacity and interleukin-1β and oral health-related quality of life after matcha and green tea consumption for patients with gingivitis: A randomized clinical trial, Abdul-Wahab HY, et al. International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 2025; 23(1):114-123. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: B]
  12. 12 . Catalase-deficient mice induce aging faster through lysosomal dysfunction, Dutta RK, et al. Cell Communication and Signaling, 2022; 20(1):192. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]
  13. 13 . Stress-sensing in the human greying hair follicle: Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) depletion in hair bulb melanocytes in canities-prone scalp, Sikkink SK, et al. Scientific Reports, 2020; 10(1):18711. PubMed | DOI [Evidence: C]

Medical Disclaimer


This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.

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