Antioxidant Networks In vivo

Oxygen interacts with cells and can form highly reactive compounds in vivo known as reactive oxygen species (ROS). High levels of ROS can lead to cellular damage, oxidative stress, heart diseases and cancer. Known substances that are capable of halting the physiological process of oxidation in tissue are called antioxidants. This review covers developments in the field of antioxidant chemistry including interactions between antioxidants and ROS, topics about sources and natural occurrences, classification of antioxidants and a discussion of possible mechanisms. We also summarize examples of oxidative stress biomarkers.