Abstract

A MINI REVIEW ON FREE RADICALS-GENERATED IN BIOLOGICAL SYSTEM

C. B. Jamdade* and R. D. Bodare

Abstract

Free radicals are very small diffusible molecules that are highly reactive because of the unpaired electron (odd number of electrons). They support to bind atoms together as they are attracted to each other. Free radicals have added importance in the field of biology due to their vital role in various physiological conditions as well as their consequence in a diverse range of diseases. They are formed during many different endogenous and exogenous processes. This includes endogenous sources (mitochondria, peroxisomes, endoplasmic reticulum, phagocytic cells etc.) and exogenous sources (pollution, alcohol, tobacco smoke, heavy metals, transition metals, industrial solvents, pesticides, certain drugs like halothane, paracetamol, and radiation). At low levels, free radicals give beneficial effects while at high concentrations, they produce oxidative stress and they could damage all cell structures by causing a mutation in the cell to turn into diseased or malignant cells. The effect of these free radicals is neutralized by various antioxidants which stops oxidative damage by reacting with free radicals.

Keywords: Free radicals, Oxidative stress, Disease, Antioxidants.