Free Radicals, Antioxidants and Redox Potential

The role of free radicals and antioxidants is often underestimated despite their involvement in key metabolic processes, although they participate in many important metabolic processes in the life of humans, animals and plants. Their quantity and quality differ from each other, which is not respected. Each cell is attacked approximately 10,000 times by free radicals. Oxidative stress is the cause of many problems, especially in viral diseases. Monitoring of redox potentials in body fluids is usually not carried out. Viral replication is influenced by oxidative energy, derived from either host metabolism or free radical activity, which is supplied by oxidation by free radicals or the host. Nucleic acid mutations due to the effect of free radicals can be the cause of carcinomas, and possible defense against mutations could help eradicate dangerous viruses. The importance of malondialdehyde and antibodies against it is discussed. Eliminating free radicals, reducing lipoperoxidation, and protecting against environmental oxidative stress are important factors for human health. Study objective: To highlight the importance of free radicals, antioxidants and redox potentials for patient diagnosis and therapy. Methods: This study synthesizes findings from multiple published sources, including our own research. Results: Findings highlight the role of free radicals in oxidative stress, DNA damage, and viral replication, with redox potential (ORP) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) identified as key diagnostic markers. Conclusion: Monitoring oxidative balance and targeting free radical activity are essential for preventing cellular damage and improving clinical outcomes in oxidative stress-related diseases.