Protection of Proteins from Oxidative Stress: A New Illusion or a Novel Strategy?

Abstract

Proteins damaged by oxidative stress have the most dangerous consequences. Oxidized protein derivatives inveigle lipids and carbohydrates into metabolic transformations that result in loss of protein functions and accumulation of glycated proteins and advanced glycated end products, which are difficult to remove from living tissues. Hydrophobic antioxidants are not very effective in protecting proteins from oxidative modification. At the same time, the natural hydrophilic antioxidant and anti-glycating agent carnosine efficiently prevents oxidative modification of proteins and increases the life span of experimental animals under unfavorable conditions. It can be considered a potent natural geroprotector.