The role of free radicals, highly reactive molecules, has always been a topic of intense medical and scientific discourse. They are known to have associations with various diseases extending from cancers, neurodegenerative disorders to cardiovascular complications. But an interesting turn of the talk comes with recent findings from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali. The team concluded that these unstable and reactive molecules might actually play a significant role in dictating the growth and size of organisms.
Understanding Free Radicals
Free radicals are reactive molecules that interact readily with other substances within the body. In certain situations, these interactions can produce negative health effects through the damage they inflict upon cells. The deleterious effects of free radicals can be combated by ‘antioxidants’, substances frequently found in many dietary supplements.
As the human body ages, its capability to battle the effects of free radicals starts to wane. This dwindling defense results in more free radicals, more oxidative stress, and subsequently more damage to cells. The aftermath is degenerative processes as well as what we refer to as “normal” aging.
Link between Free Radicals and Diseases
There are various studies and theories linking oxidative stress caused by free radicals to numerous health conditions. These include:
- Central nervous system diseases, e.g., Alzheimer’s and dementias.
- Cardiovascular disease due to the hardening of arteries.
- Autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
- Eyesight impairment due to cataracts and age-related vision decline.
- Age-related changes in physical appearance, involving loss of skin elasticity, wrinkles, greying hair, hair loss, and variation in hair texture.
- Diabetes and genetic degenerative diseases such as Huntington’s or Parkinson’s disease.
The Role of Free Radicals in Growth Regulation
The IISER study made a significant finding suggesting that free radicals are used by an organism to modulate its systemic growth. The research is crucial because it shines a light on the interplay between certain key biological processes during early life stages.
Free Radicals in Stress Responses
Another related study has shown that under different types of stress, the sympathetic nervous system activates receptors known as beta-adrenergic receptors on heart muscle cells. This activation induces several changes within the cells, one being the phosphorylation of proteins. This results in the cells contracting more forcefully, making the heart beat stronger.
| Stress Type | Physiological Response | Role of Free Radicals |
|---|---|---|
| Physical | Heart beats with greater force | Contribute to heart’s ability to pump more blood |
| Emotional | Increased Adrenaline Production | Support adrenaline in preparing body for action |
The Enhanced Importance of Free Radicals
In this process, the role of free radicals gains further significance as they enable the heart to pump more blood during stressful situations, showing that these molecules may be more integral in our physiological processes than previously thought.
