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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

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A Rapid and Specific Microplate Assay for the Determination of Intra- and Extracellular Ascorbate in Cultured Cells
Published on: April 11, 2014
[Carnosine: endogenous physiological corrector of antioxidative system activity]
Uspekhi Fiziologicheskikh Nauk
|November 6, 2007
Summary
Carnosine acts as an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress from various damaging factors. It works by directly combating reactive oxygen species and modulating enzyme activity in tissues.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Oxidative stress is implicated in various pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases and organ damage.
- Environmental and physiological stressors (e.g., radiation, hypoxia, ischemia) induce significant oxidative stress.
- Understanding antioxidant mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies.
Purpose:
- To review the role of carnosine as an antioxidant and its protective effects against oxidative stress.
- To explore carnosine's mechanisms of action at both organismal and cellular levels.
- To summarize experimental findings on carnosine's efficacy in diverse oxidative stress models.
Summary:
- Carnosine demonstrates protective effects against oxidative stress induced by gamma rays, hypothermia, hypobaric hypoxia, brain ischemia, and neurotoxins.
- Its antioxidant properties were investigated using in vivo models and in vitro enzymatic systems.
- Carnosine functions through direct antioxidant activity and by modulating enzymes that control reactive oxygen species levels.
Impact:
- Carnosine shows potential as a therapeutic agent for conditions associated with oxidative stress.
- Its dual mechanism of action (direct scavenging and enzyme modulation) offers a comprehensive protective strategy.
- Further research into carnosine could lead to novel treatments for oxidative stress-related diseases.
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