Free radicals in peripheral nerve repair

Free radicals are molecules that react with cellular structures and can cause damage to cell structures such as DNA, proteins, and cell membranes through a process named oxidation. After damage of the peripheral nerve, inflammatory processes begin which may result in the production of free radicals. Free radicals negatively affect nerve regeneration. Nervous system is sensitive to oxidative stress. Excessive of free radicals affect recovery after nerve injury. Antioxidants are molecules that scavenge free radicals and protect cells from damage. There are natural and synthetic antioxidants. Natural antioxidants can obtain from natural sources, but the synthetic antioxidants can also be derived from chemical processes. Natural and synthetic antioxidants exhibit protection and antioxidant activity against oxidant-induced damage. Consequently, compounds with antioxidant properties have positive effects on peripheral nerve healing by protecting axons and Schwann cells from the destructive effect of oxidative stress. Therefore, uses of substances that reduce or neutralize free radicals are useful for repair of peripheral nerve. Hence, this review discusses the effect of free radicals and antioxidants molecules on peripheral nerve repair and regeneration.

Keywords:

Antioxidants , Free radicals , Peripheral nerve