Author: Burkitt, Mark J.

Source: Progress in Reaction Kinetics and Mechanism, Volume 28, Number 1, 2003 , pp. 75-103(29)

Publisher: Science Reviews 2000 Ltd

Abstract:

A critical evaluation is made of the role of the Fenton reaction (Fe²⁺ + H₂O₂ * Fe³⁺ + ^*OH + OH^­) in the promotion of oxidative damage in mammalian systems. Following a brief, historical overview of the Fenton reaction, including the formulation of the Haber­Weiss cycle as a mechanism for the catalysis of hydroxyl radical production, an appraisal is made of the biological relevance of the reaction today, following recognition of the important role played by nitric oxide and its congers in the promotion of biomolecular damage. In depth coverage is then given of the evidence (largely from EPR studies) for and against the hydroxyl radical as the active oxidant produced in the Fenton reaction and the role of metal chelating agents (including those of biological importance) and ascorbic acid in the modulation of its generation. This is followed by a description of the important developments that have occurred recently in the molecular and cellular biology of iron, including evidence for the presence of 'free' iron that is available in vivo for the Fenton reaction. Particular attention here is given to the role of the iron-regulatory proteins in the modulation of cellular iron status and how their functioning may become dysregulated during oxidative and nitrosative stress, as well as in hereditary haemochromatosis, a common disorder of iron metabolism. Finally, an assessment is made of the biological relevance of ascorbic acid in the promotion of hydroxyl radical generation by the Fenton reaction in health and disease.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3184/007967403103165468

Publication date: 2003-03-01

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• Progress in Reaction Kinetics & Mechanism is an international journal for the quarterly publication of both in-depth reviews and research articles.

  In-depth reviews are comprehensive accounts bringing together work from many sources with the aim of providing an article of lasting value that will become established as the reference source in the particular subject. Research articles, on the other hand, normally focus on a relatively new or recently developed field or technique giving a state-of-the-art account of the subject and may well refer to a narrower range of existing work. It covers the fields of kinetics and mechanisms of chemical processes in the gas phase and solution of both simple and complex systems.

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