A review of antioxidants

Abstract

Antioxidants play the essential role in reducing the free radicals. Free radicals can cause various changes in human body from DNA mutation to cell death. Free radical formation form the biological basis of several medical problems including cancer. The antioxidants are useful in preventing the transfer of premalignant lesion to malignancy. Hence are usually prescribed in oral premalignant lesions like leukoplakia, lichen planus, oral submucous fibrosis. Antioxidants include beta carotene, carotenoid, vitamin C, vitamin E, trace elements like zinc and selenium. Functions of these antioxidants are discussed here.