Praktické lekárnictvo 1/2016

Antioxidants and their role in the prevention and treatment of cancer

Free radicals are highly reactive elements that are produced naturally in all cells and have their physiological relevance. When accumulating and occurring at high concentrations, free radicals represent a risk. They can damage various cell structures, including DNA in their nuclei, due to their nature. Antioxidants are any agents that are capable to react with free radicals, and neutralize their reactive potential, and thus reduce their ability to damage DNA and other cellular structures. Antioxidants are responsible for maintenance of oxidative balance of the cells. Oxidative stress occurs when the cells are exposed to excessive amounts of free radicals, either by their overproduction, or in excessive exposure to environmental toxins. Systematic operation of a large number of free radicals in the body results in a cascade of processes which can damage cell structures, and among a lot of other threats, there is an increased risk of cancer development. In experimental conditions antioxidants can hinder free radicals from damaging the cell structures, and hence they are able to reduce the risk of cancer. Despite the undeniable achievements in the study of the role of oxidative stress in carcinogenesis and the role of antioxidants in anti-cancer prevention, current results cannot yet be considered final and further targeted research will be necessary. Nevertheless, eating of food rich in antioxidants can be considered legitimate.

Keywords: antioxidants, anti-cancer prevention, cancer