What are free radicals? How do they cause cell damage?
As you probably recall in high school biology, a molecule is composed of 2 or more atoms held together by an electron (e) which revolves in separate orbits. Ideally each orbit contain an even number of e which balances the electrical charges and stabilizes the whole structure. A free radical has an unpaired molecule in the outermost orbit. A molecule with an unpaired e is unstable and is compelled by law of physics to steal an e from other molecules, or share its spare e. Electrons are the flexible atomic glue that holds the molecule together. So when a free radical interferes with e of another molecule, it will deform, corrode or destroy it. On the cellular level, this interference destroy cell membranes, disable vital enzymes and corrupt genetic codes. To an organism this could mean disease or even death. Where do free radicals come from? • From the air we breathe. Oxygen is vital for our survival, because it converts carbon rich molecules into energy to sustain life. However, part o
