Radical-mediated Protein Oxidation

Book excerpt: Radicals--short lived, reactive molecules--are thought to play a major role in many oxidative processes within cells and to have implications in several human diseases, carcinogenesis, and aging. This unique and comprehensive volume brings together up-to-date information on the oxidation of amino acids, peptides, and proteins by free radicals and discusses the roles of such processes in biological systems. Topics include: the chemistry of amino acid and protein oxidation; the biochemical consequences of these reactions; the role of protein oxidation in normal physiology; the potential importance of protein oxidation in human health, including aging, heart disease, cancer, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases; and the possible prevention of disease processes by antioxidants and other protective strategies. Drawing on the latest research across a range of disciplines, this book will be important reading for researchers and graduate and postdoctoral students in the fields of radical biochemistry, physiology, and pathology.