The Fight Between Antioxidants and Free Radicals

Abstract

Antioxidants are molecules that commonly interact with the free radicals to terminate the chain reaction in biological system in such a way that the vital molecules are not damaged. It is known that there are several enzyme systems within the body that disarm free radicals. This review describes the behavior of antioxidants in battling excessive oxidative stress in the human body. Although free radical creation is essential to cells, the propagation of radicals may grow beyond a healthy limit and damage tissue. Excessive free radicals harmfully oxidize essential biomolecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids, which causes a breakdown of proper cellular function. For example, radical-induced damage to DNA may cause chromosomal defects that lead to cancer initiation and propagation. While the diseases associated with free radical damage are extensive, they can be grouped based on the type of cell that is oxidized. In this presentation, we will discuss the different kinds of radicals that cause oxidative stress in the body, analyze the common symptoms that result from these radicals, and evaluate antioxidants that impede these reactions from occurring.