Free radicals implicated in development of over 100 infectious diseases

IFree radical is the term given to molecules containing one or more unpaired electrons as such free radicals are highly reactive species that seek stability by gaining electrons.  When a free Radical involves Oxygen it is often referred to as a ‘reactive Oxygen species’. 

Free radicals are produced in the body as a result of normal cellular metabolism; they can also be a direct result of external sources e.g. pollution and smoking. To gain extra electrons they often attack nearby molecules having a destructive effect. 

Free radical attack has been implicated in the development of over 100 conditions including cancer, diabetes, infertility, cardiovascular disease, lung, liver and renal disease, inflammatory and infectious conditions, ageing and neurological disorders.

Many types of cancer are thought to be a result of reaction between free radicals and DNA

Antioxidants are the bodies main defence mechanism against free radical induced damage, Antioxidants can work in three ways: 

• Some antioxidants prevent the formation of free radicals e.g. Albumin, Ferritin and Transferrin
• Some remove antioxidants (Scavenging Antioxidants) help remove free radicals from the body e.g. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Bilirubin and Uric Acid
• Some repair damage caused by free radicals

Randox provide a range of tests to assess the individual components of the antioxidant system and the overall antioxidant status.  Kits are suitable for research use in determining the role of free radicals in disease also extremely useful in determining the antioxidant content of cosmetics, food and beverages.

Tests available include:

• Total Antioxidant Status (TAS)
• Glutathione Peroxidase (Ransel)
• Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
• Glutathione Reductase
• Albumin
• Bilirubin
• Ferritin
• Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
• Transferrin
• Uric Acid

For more information please contact us or visit diagnostic reagents section of our website.