A Review of Probable Effects of Antioxidants on DNA Damage

Abstract

Introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are normally generated from the metabolism in human body and when cellular antioxidant capacity decreased, it can cause oxidative stress and also different metabolic disorders. Based on the recent findings, antioxidants have protective role on macromolecules such as proteins, DNA and other against ROS. In this review we summarize the probable mechanisms of different antioxidants on DNA damages. Methods: Based on our search in databases, 20 eligible articles were identified. The key words used for the search were: antioxidants in combination of Reactive Oxygen Species, DNA damage and fragmentation. The amount o f damage to DNA and the mechanisms by which antioxidants affect in these studies were checked out by the following methods: 8-oh-dg, comet assay, mutation analysis, micronucleus assay, and DNA base damage products. Results: Recent findings showed that antioxidants can neutralize ROS production and prevent destructive damages to DNA. Beta-carotene, selenium, vitamin E and C can prevent and improve the features of different disorders such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and so on by activating glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase enzymes. Although vitamin C, poly phenols and zinc have antioxidant properties, their appropriate dosage is not specified. So using these substances at improper dosage can elevate DNA fragmentation. Conclusion: Internal and external antioxidants have some neutralizing effects against ROS and DNA damage but some studies are controversial; so, determining the effective dosage needs further studies.