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The biochemical,
physiological and therapeutic roles of ascorbic acid
Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju
Oxidative Stress Research Unit, Department of Biomedical
Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape
Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, South Africa.
E-mail:
bejufemi@yahoo.co.uk,
oguntibejuo@yahoo.co.uk.
Accepted
21 November, 2008 |
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Ascorbic
acid is an important micronutrient necessary for a
significant number of metabolic reactions in humans and
other primates. It is a strong reducing agent involved in
reduction reaction and it is structurally related to
glucose. Experimental and epidemiological studies have
documented the biochemical, physiological and therapeutic
roles of ascorbic acid. It is an essential water-soluble
antioxidant vitamin derived from exogenous source; thus its
role in human health is worthy to be considered particularly
because of the current global economic trend. The
biochemical, physiological and therapeutic roles of ascorbic
acid is reviewed, providing further insights into the role
of ascorbic acid in biological functions.
Key
words: Ascorbic acid, human health, disease, biological
function, therapeutic roles. |
