Radikalhemmer

Radikalhemmer, also known as radical scavengers or free radical scavengers, are molecules capable of inactivating or neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms or molecules that have an unpaired electron, making them highly reactive. They can cause damage to cells, DNA, and other biological molecules through a process called oxidative stress. This damage is implicated in aging and various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Radikalhemmer work by donating an electron to the free radical, thereby stabilizing it and preventing it from initiating a chain reaction of damage. They can also react with free radicals to form less reactive species. These compounds can be endogenous, meaning they are produced by the body, or exogenous, meaning they are consumed through diet or supplements.

Examples of endogenous radikalhemmer include enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as molecules like uric acid and bilirubin. Exogenous radikalhemmer are commonly found in foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, and include vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as various phytochemicals like flavonoids and carotenoids.

The effectiveness of a radikalhemmer is often measured by its antioxidant capacity, which indicates its ability to neutralize free radicals. While the concept of radikalhemmer is well-established, research continues to explore their precise mechanisms of action and their potential therapeutic applications in managing conditions related to oxidative stress.