Modulation of free radical formation by pterin derivatives

Abstract

All classes of pterins, fully reduced tetrahydropterins, aromatic pterins and dihydropterins have been investigated upon their effects on radical mediated reactions. Meanwhile all these classes were shown to act as both, pro- and antioxidants by a number of different methods including chemical, biochemical and biological systems. From reduced pterins radicals including oxygen-, nitrogen- and pterin-radicals are formed enzymatically and non-enzymatically, reduced pterins react with free radicals and serve as reductive agents. All classes of pterins may interfere with enzymes involved in radical formation. Upon the diversity of possibilities the net effect of a particular compound is a question of the experimental settings and the physiological relevant role often remains obscure.