Role of oxygen-derived free radicals in inflammation

Abstract

Oxygen-derived free radicals are mainly produced by phagocytic cells and hypoxanthine-xanthine oxidase system at inflammatory site. These oxygen metabolites and lipid peroxidation have been implicated in cell damage, interactions with other inflammatory mediators and modulation of vascular response. It is very important to modulate free radical-induced inflammatory reaction in various organs by administration of radical scavengers and antioxidants.