Ree Radicals

Question 1

What are free radicals?

Answer 1

Unstable molecules with an unpaired electron.

Question 2

How are free radicals formed?

Answer 2

Through normal cellular energy generation by O2 and electron transfer
exposure to UV radiation by ionization of H2O
pollution, and smoking.
Killing of pathogens by phagocytes as they are preformed in membrane complex
By product of intracellular oxidase reactions
Chemical metabolism of cellular enzyme

Question 3

What are the effects of free radicals on the body?

Answer 3

They can damage cell membrane by peroxidation
Damage proteins by amino acid cross linking breakdown
Damage DNA, leading to diseases like cancer and aging.

Question 4

How can antioxidants protect against free radicals?

Answer 4

By neutralizing them and preventing oxidative stress.

Question 5

True or False: Free radicals are always harmful to the body.

Answer 5

False

Question 6

What is oxidative stress?

Answer 6

An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body.

Question 7

What are some sources of antioxidants?

Answer 7

Vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: Free radicals have an unpaired ________.

Answer 8

electron

Question 9

What role do free radicals play in inflammation?

Answer 9

They can worsen inflammation by damaging tissues.

Question 10

How can a diet rich in fruits and vegetables help protect against free radicals?

Answer 10

They contain antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals.

Question 11

What is the role of the enzyme superoxide dismutase in protecting against free radicals?

Answer 11

It converts superoxide radicals into less harmful molecules.

Question 12

True or False: Free radicals are always produced by external sources like pollution.

Answer 12

False

Question 13

What is the most common type of free radical in the body?

Answer 13

Superoxide radical

Question 14

How do free radicals contribute to the aging process?

Answer 14

By damaging DNA and proteins, leading to cellular dysfunction.

Question 15

What are some lifestyle factors that can increase free radical formation?

Answer 15

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a poor diet.

Question 16

What is the role of glutathione in protecting against free radicals?

Answer 16

It acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps recycle other antioxidants.

Question 17

How do free radicals contribute to the development of cancer?

Answer 17

By causing DNA mutations that can lead to uncontrolled cell growth.

Question 18

What is the main function of antioxidants in the body?

Answer 18

To neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage.

Question 19

True or False: Free radicals are always beneficial for the body.

Answer 19

False

Question 20

What are some examples of environmental factors that can increase free radical formation?

Answer 20

UV radiation, air pollution, and heavy metals.

Question 21

How does exercise affect free radical formation?

Answer 21

It can increase free radical production but also enhance antioxidant defenses.

Question 22

What is the role of vitamin C in protecting against free radicals?

Answer 22

It is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals.

Question 23

What is lipid peroxidation and how does it relate to free radicals?

Answer 23

It is the oxidative degradation of lipids, often caused by free radicals.

Question 24

How can stress contribute to free radical formation?

Answer 24

By increasing the body’s production of stress hormones that can lead to oxidative damage.

Question 25

What is the role of polyphenols in protecting against free radicals?

Answer 25

They are antioxidants found in plants that can help neutralize free radicals.

Question 26

Protection from ROS

Answer 26

Natural decay of O2 and H2O2
Antioxidants
Binding of copper and iron to transport proteins
Scavenging enzymes that break down H2O2 and O2