What causes free radicals chemistry?

Free radicals and other ROS are derived either from normal essential metabolic processes in the human body or from external sources such as exposure to X-rays, ozone, cigarette smoking, air pollutants, and industrial chemicals.

What is free radical chemistry?

A free radical can be defined as an atom or molecule containing one or more unpaired electrons in valency shell or outer orbit and is capable of independent existence. The odd number of electron(s) of a free radical makes it unstable, short lived and highly reactive.

How are ROS formed?

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are formed as natural by-products of normal cell activity and participate in cellular signaling [1]. The increase in ROS levels has harmful effects on cell homeostasis, structures, and functions and results in oxidative stress.

How do free radicals cause cell damage?

Free radicals can cause damage to parts of cells such as proteins, DNA, and cell membranes by stealing their electrons through a process called oxidation.

What is a characteristic of free radicals?

(i) Free radicals are generally electrically neutral. (ii) They carry on odd (unpaired) electron. (ii) They are highly unstable. (iii) They are short-lived.

What is radical reaction in chemistry?

A radical substitution reaction is a reaction which occurs by a free radical mechanism and results in the substitution of one or more of the atoms or groups present in the substrate by different atoms or groups. The initiation step in a radical chain reaction is the step in which a free radical is first produced.

What is ROS chemistry?

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are radical or molecular species whose physical-chemical properties are well-known both on thermodynamic and kinetic points of view. They are produced from molecular oxygen, during the successive 4 steps of 1-electron reduction (reaction (1)).

How do free radicals cause mutation?

Free radicals are produced in cells by cellular metabolism and by exogenous agents. These species react with biomolecules in cells, including DNA. The resulting damage to DNA, which is also called oxidative damage to DNA, is implicated in mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, and aging.

How does ROS affect DNA?

At high levels, ROS can lead to impaired physiological function through cellular damage of DNA, proteins, lipids, and other macromolecules, which can lead to certain human pathologies including cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular disease, as well as aging.

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