Is Measuring OH^. Radical Scavenging a Reasonable Measurement of Antioxidant Properties?

Abstract

The measurement of the hydroxyl radical scavenging properties of a compound is not indicative on its antioxidant properties in vivo. To get such information one has to elucidate the mechanism of its reaction with typical secondary radicals, mainly typical RO2. radicals and to some degree with R. radicals. Elucidation of the mechanisms of reaction is essential before a conclusion regarding the antioxidant properties can be derived. One should remember that in vivo even vitamins C and E might act as pro‐oxidants.