Abstract: Provided are novel superoxide dismutase derivatives represented by the following general formula (I) ##STR1## wherein [SOD] is a superoxide dismutase residue derived by removal of two mercapto groups, and W is a divalent long chain hydrocarbon residue which may optionally be interrupted by one or more groups each independently selected from the group consisting of an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom and a group of -N(R)- (R being a lower alkyl group). The SOD derivatives retain most of the enzymatic activities of unmodified SOD and have much longer plasma half-life than unmodified SOD. They are effective for treating various diseases caused by active oxygen species.Also provided are chemical modifiers to prepare the above SOD derivatives.

Abstract: Provided are novel superoxide dismutase derivatives represented by the following general formula (I) ##STR1## wherein [SOD] is a superoxide dismutase residue derived by removal of two mercapto groups, and W is a divalent long chain hydrocarbon residue which may optionally be interrupted by one or more groups each independently selected from the group consisting of an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom and a group of --N(R)-- (R being a lower alkyl group). The SOD derivatives retain most of the enzymatic activities of unmodified SOD and have much longer plasma half-life than unmodified SOD. They are effective for treating various diseases caused by active oxygen species.Also provided are chemical modifiers to prepare the above SOD derivatives.

Abstract: Novel superoxide dismutase derivatives are provided in which the enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase capable of decomposing superoxide, a substance harmful to living organisms, is for the most part maintained with the plasma half-life being significantly prolonged as compared with superoxide dismutase itself. They have pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, anti-ischemic and cerebral edema-preventing activities. Also provided are a method of producing such superoxide dismutase derivatives and medicinal uses of them.