Human antioxidant status

Human antioxidant status refers to the overall levels and activities of endogenous (produced by the body) and exogenous (obtained from the diet) antioxidants present in the body, which function collectively to neutralize reactive oxygen species (free radicals) and maintain redox balance[1][3][7]. This “status” is a composite measure rather than a discrete biochemical entity, and is commonly assessed in clinical and research settings as an indicator of the body’s ability to withstand oxidative damage associated with aging and a variety of diseases including cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders[1][3][5]. Human antioxidant status includes enzymatic antioxidants (such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E, glutathione, carotenoids, and uric acid). It is not a single druggable or disease-modifying therapeutic target, but rather an aggregate physiological parameter or biomarker[1][6][8]. Because “human antioxidant status” is not itself a molecule, receptor, or enzyme, information concerning drug interactions or direct mechanisms of action is not relevant. It is, however, an important marker for patient selection or efficacy assessment in trials of antioxidant therapies or interventions.

Other names

Total antioxidant capacityantioxidant defense statusantioxidant profile