The Role of Antioxidants in Biochemistry

Antioxidants play a critical role in mitigating oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and preventing cellular damage. This review explores the biochemical mechanisms of antioxidants, classifying them into enzymatic and non-enzymatic categories, and highlights their essential functions in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The role of antioxidants in disease prevention, particularly in neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, is discussed in detail. Additionally, the interplay between ROS generation and antioxidant defense mechanisms is examined, providing insight into the delicate balance required for optimal physiological function. While dietary and synthetic antioxidants offer promising therapeutic potential, challenges such as bioavailability, dosage optimization, and potential adverse effects remain areas of active research. This review also outlines future directions in antioxidant research, emphasizing the need for further studies to elucidate synergistic interactions and novel therapeutic applications.