HSS 2342 Chapter Notes - Chapter 12: Retinol, Beta-Carotene, Unpaired Electron
22 Mar 2017
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
Protect cells from oxidative damage: vitamins block free radicals (donate an electron), direct effect on minerals as cofactors for enzymes that protect from oxidative damage, involved with phytochemicals (found in vegetables & fruits) Oxidation (lose an electron) is part of normal metabolism. Unpaired electron = free radical damages lipids, dna, rna, protein damage. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating electrons too much/little of antioxidants are dangerous for our body. Common radicals are: superoxide (super reactive radical) & hydroxyl. Too much ionizing radiation for cancer treatment can actually damage the body even more. Vit a: first fat-soluble vitamin to be recognized. Can become really toxic if overdosed, especially in children there is set ul. 3 types: retinol, retinal, retinoic acid all known as the retinoids. Beta-carotene: a vit a precursor, acts as an antioxidant that can protect the body against disease.
