Lipid peroxidation

Lipid Peroxidation

Lipid peroxidation (pronunciation: /ˈlɪpɪd pɛrˌɒksɪˈdeɪʃən/) is a process in which free radicals steal electrons from the lipids in cell membranes, resulting in cell damage. This process proceeds by a free radical chain reaction mechanism. It most often affects polyunsaturated fatty acids, because they contain multiple double bonds, in between which lie methylene bridges (-CH2-) that possess especially reactive hydrogens.

Etymology

The term "lipid peroxidation" is derived from the words "lipid" and "peroxidation". "Lipid" is a term for a group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K), monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and phospholipids. The term "peroxidation" refers to the process by which a substance is broken down by oxidation in the presence of peroxide.

Process

Lipid peroxidation starts with the oxidation of a fatty acid to produce a fatty acid radical. This radical can then react with oxygen to form a peroxyl-fatty acid radical. The peroxyl-fatty acid radical can then react with a second fatty acid to steal a hydrogen atom, forming a lipid hydroperoxide and a new fatty acid radical. This new fatty acid radical can then undergo the same series of reactions, leading to a chain reaction.

Related Terms

Health Implications

Lipid peroxidation is associated with several diseases, including atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. It is also involved in aging and several conditions related to oxidative stress.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Lipid peroxidation
Wikipedia's article - Lipid peroxidation

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Lipid peroxidation