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Background
Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a mammalian phagocyte hemoprotein thought to primarily mediate host defense reactions. It is abundantly expressed in neutrophils and secreted during their activation. Myeloperoxidase is part of the host defense system of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, responsible for microbicidal activity against a wide range of organisms. It is located in the nucleus as well as in the cytoplasm. Intranuclear MPO may help to protect DNA against damage resulting from oxygen radicals produced during myeloid cell maturation and function.