Hydroxyl radical
Hydroxyl Radical
The Hydroxyl Radical (pronounced: /ˈhaɪdrɒksɪl ˈrædɪkəl/) is a highly reactive oxygen species that is produced in biological systems. It is denoted by the chemical formula •OH.
Etymology
The term "Hydroxyl" is derived from the Greek words 'hydro' meaning water and 'xylon' meaning wood. The term "Radical" in chemistry refers to an atom, molecule, or ion that has unpaired valence electrons.
Description
The Hydroxyl Radical is a neutral form of the hydroxide ion (OH−). It is a highly reactive entity that has been implicated in the damage of biomolecules leading to diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. It is produced in the body during various metabolic processes and can also be generated in the environment through photochemical reactions involving sunlight and water vapor.
Related Terms
- Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): A type of unstable molecule that contains oxygen and that easily reacts with other molecules in a cell. The Hydroxyl Radical is a type of ROS.
- Free Radicals: Atoms or groups of atoms with an odd (unpaired) number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. The Hydroxyl Radical is a type of Free Radical.
- Oxidative Stress: An imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects through neutralization by antioxidants. The Hydroxyl Radical contributes to Oxidative Stress.
- Antioxidants: Substances that may protect your cells against the effects of free radicals. They interact with and neutralize free radicals, thus preventing them from causing damage.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hydroxyl radical
- Wikipedia's article - Hydroxyl radical
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