The antioxidant properties of serum albumin

FEBS Lett. 2008 Jun 11;582(13):1783-7. doi: 10.1016/j.febslet.2008.04.057. Epub 2008 May 12.

Abstract

Free radicals are a normal component of cellular oxygen metabolism in mammals. However, free radical-associated damage is an important factor in many pathological processes. Glycation and oxidative damage cause protein modifications, frequently observed in numerous diseases. Albumin represents a very abundant and important circulating antioxidant. This review brings together recent insights on albumin antioxidant properties. First, it focuses on the different activities of albumin concerning protein antioxidation. In particular, we describe the role of albumin in ligand binding and free radical-trapping activities. In addition, physiological and pathological situations that modify the antioxidant properties of albumin are reported.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Free Radical Scavengers / chemistry
  • Free Radical Scavengers / metabolism*
  • Free Radicals / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Serum Albumin / chemistry
  • Serum Albumin / metabolism*

Substances

  • Free Radical Scavengers
  • Free Radicals
  • Ligands
  • Serum Albumin