Mechanism of inactivation of free radicals

Free radicals produced within the body can be inactivated by the following ways

• Antioxidants: Antioxidants either block the initiation of free radical formation or inactivate free radicals and terminate radical damage. Example: Vit-A, Vit-E, Vit-C, Glutathion.
• Iron copper can catalyze the formation of reactive oxygen species. The levels of these reactive forms are minimized by binding of the ions to storage and transport proteins (Transferrin, Ferritin, Lactoferrin and ceruloplasmin) thereby minimizing OH formation.
• A series of enzymes acts as free radical scavenging systems and breakdown hydrogen peroxide and superoxide anion. Example:
• Catalase
• Superoxide dismutases
• Glutathion peroxidase