While multiple factors contribute to telomere protection, antioxidants play a significant role in shielding telomeric DNA from damage.
Telomeres, the protective caps at the end of our chromosomes, are crucial for maintaining genomic stability. They are, however, vulnerable to damage from both internal (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic) DNA-damaging agents. Here's how antioxidants help:
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Combating Oxidative Stress: Telomeres are susceptible to oxidative damage. Antioxidants, as stated in the provided reference, can protect telomeric DNA from oxidative damage caused by extrinsic and intrinsic DNA damaging agents.
- Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants.
- Free radicals can damage DNA, including telomeric DNA, leading to telomere shortening and dysfunction.
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Mechanism of Action: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preventing them from attacking and damaging telomeric DNA.
- Examples of antioxidants include vitamins C and E, as well as certain enzymes produced by the body.
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Telomere Length Maintenance: By minimizing oxidative damage, antioxidants can indirectly contribute to maintaining telomere length and function.
- While antioxidants are not the sole factor determining telomere length, their protective effect can help slow down the rate of telomere shortening.
It's important to note that telomere protection is a complex process involving multiple mechanisms, including telomere-binding proteins and DNA repair pathways. Antioxidants are one important piece of this intricate puzzle.
