What is the role of vitamins C and E as toxic O2 scavengers?

Vitamins C and E serve important roles as antioxidants, specifically in neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids. When oxidative stress occurs, it can lead to various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble antioxidant that helps to scavenge free radicals in the aqueous environments of body fluids and tissues. It directly donates electrons to free radicals, neutralizing them and minimizing their potential to cause harm.

Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a fat-soluble antioxidant found in the membranes of cells. It primarily protects fatty acids from peroxidation, which is the process by which free radicals attack lipids. This is particularly crucial as it helps maintain cellular integrity and function.

Together, these vitamins effectively contribute to reducing oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, thereby supporting overall cellular health and function. This capability is significant in the context of preventing chronic diseases linked to oxidative damage.