Commentarv Mannitol: Molecule Magnifique or a Case of Radical Misinterpretation?

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species are constantly formed in biological systems. When production exceeds antioxidant protection, oxidative stress leading to molecular damage occurs. The most reactive ROS in biological systems is the hydroxyl radical which damages adjacent molecules at diffusion controlled rates. The possibility of preventing such chemistry inside cells with therapeutic doses of mannitol at present seem remote.