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Role of Ascorbic Acid in Scavenging Free Radicals and Lead Toxicity from Biosystems

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Abstract

Free radicals are reactive species that are responsible for damaging normal cells and creating diseases in humans. Antioxidants from natural resources or as supplements can scavenge these radicals. A MedLine search indicates that vitamin C is the most investigated antioxidant responsible for the elimination of free radicals. Its chelating property for the removal of neurotoxic lead, which creates oxidative stress in the human biosystem, was investigated and results indicate its great potential as a lead-detoxifying agent.

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Acknowledgments

(A) Sabah State Government for funding and School of Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia for the research facilities to: (1) Raidi Tarion (1998–1999) and (2) Zarina Binti Ahmad (2000–2001). (B) UNDP (Pakistan) for funding and Aga Khan University Medical College for facilities (2003).

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    Shabbir A. Tariq

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Tariq, S.A. Role of Ascorbic Acid in Scavenging Free Radicals and Lead Toxicity from Biosystems. Mol Biotechnol 37, 62–65 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12033-007-0045-x

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