Ascorbic acid and the mitochondria

Abstract Ascorbic acid (AA) is a well-known antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables and is effective to protect tissues from oxidative injury. It is an essential antioxidant able to quench reactive oxygen species (ROS), however, its transport across the mitochondria and the functions are inadequately studied. The mitochondrial fraction of ascorbic acid is of critical importance for the regulation of the redox status of these organelles and for cell survival. AA induces apoptotic cell death at higher concentrations by means of its prooxidant activity and at lower concentrations; it prevents the activation of oxidant-induced apoptosis via its antioxidant properties. This chapter deals with the effects of ascorbic acid on mitochondria as evidenced by in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental models with a special focus on the mechanism of action by which ascorbic acid modulate mitochondria function.