Antioxidants & redox signaling
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Antioxid. Redox Signal. · Jul 2007
ReviewFrom selenium to selenoproteins: synthesis, identity, and their role in human health.
The requirement of the trace element selenium for life and its beneficial role in human health has been known for several decades. This is attributed to low molecular weight selenium compounds, as well as to its presence within at least 25 proteins, named selenoproteins, in the form of the amino acid selenocysteine (Sec). Incorporation of Sec into selenoproteins employs a unique mechanism that involves decoding of the UGA codon. ⋯ Recent evidence points to a role for selenium compounds as well as selenoproteins in the prevention of some forms of cancer. A number of clinical trials are either underway or being planned to examine the effects of selenium on cancer incidence. In this review we describe some of the recent progress in our understanding of the mechanism of selenoprotein synthesis, the role of selenoproteins in human health and disease and the therapeutic potential of some of these proteins.
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Antioxid. Redox Signal. · Feb 2007
Does edaravone (MCI- 186) act as an antioxidant and a neuroprotector in experimental traumatic brain injury?
Edaravone (MCI-186) is a novel synthetic free radical scavenger intended to have neuroprotective effect against ischemic insult. It is currently used on patients with cerebral infarction. ⋯ Under specific experimental conditions, edaravone minimized traumatic brain injury by functioning as a synthetic antioxidant. Clinical trials testing the efficacy of edaravone are warranted.