The Role of Antioxidants in Biochemistry
1 Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Al-Ameed, College of Pharmacy, Karbala, Iraq
2 Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Iraq
3 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Iraq
Research Article
International Journal of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences Archive, 2024, 08(01), 135-141.
Article DOI: 10.53771/ijbpsa.2024.8.1.0059
Publication history:
Received on 05 June 2024; revised on 29 August 2024; accepted on 31 August 2024
Abstract:
Antioxidants play a critical role in mitigating oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and preventing cellular damage. This review explores the biochemical mechanisms of antioxidants, classifying them into enzymatic and non-enzymatic categories, and highlights their essential functions in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The role of antioxidants in disease prevention, particularly in neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, is discussed in detail. Additionally, the interplay between ROS generation and antioxidant defense mechanisms is examined, providing insight into the delicate balance required for optimal physiological function. While dietary and synthetic antioxidants offer promising therapeutic potential, challenges such as bioavailability, dosage optimization, and potential adverse effects remain areas of active research. This review also outlines future directions in antioxidant research, emphasizing the need for further studies to elucidate synergistic interactions and novel therapeutic applications.
Keywords:
Antioxidants; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Disease Prevention; Biochemical Mechanisms
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Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0