Tag: Redox homeostasis

According to a 2024 review in *Antioxidants*, a balanced redox state relies on antioxidants neutralizing ROS to maintain cellular health. This delicate equilibrium is essential for preventing oxidative stress, a phenomenon where excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) inflict damage upon cellular components.

The pentose phosphate pathway is a major source of NADPH, producing approximately 60% of the body’s total supply in humans. This versatile coenzyme is not used for ATP production like its counterpart NADH, but instead fuels a wide range of anabolic and protective cellular processes.

Overconsumption of antioxidant supplements has been shown in some studies to offer little therapeutic effect and can even be harmful, revealing a nuanced answer to the question: can the oxygen paradox be solved with antioxidants?. The relationship is far more intricate than simply adding more antioxidants to neutralize all reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Research consistently shows a strong link between low vitamin B12 levels and increased oxidative stress markers in the body. So, is B12 an antioxidant, or does its protective effect come from other biological processes? The answer involves a fascinating look into the vitamin's direct and indirect protective functions.