The book describes the chemical structure and spectroscopic properties of toxic oxygen species such as: superoxide, hydroxyl and organic oxygen radicals, hydrogen peroxide and singlet oxygen. With respect to these oxygen species this volume also covers sources of generation; methods of identification; the chemical reactivity with biologically important compounds; biochemical, clinical and environmental aspects of the oxygen species formation.
Emphasis is placed on photodynamic effects, possible role of oxygen species in human diseases, in smog and acid rain formation, in degradation of polymers and plant senescence processes. The book also includes cell and tissue mechanisms of protection against damage caused by oxygen species.

Klappentext

Properties, sources of formation, reactions, and detection of oxygen species form the first part of this volume.
Biochemical, toxicological and environmental aspects are dealt with in detail in the following chapters. This information provides the basis for a state-of-the-art understanding of the role of oxygen species in environmental pollution and as a health hazard.

Inhalt

Chemical Aspects: Properties of Activated Oxygen Species.- Role of Transition Metal Ions in Generation of Oxygen Species and Their Interconversion.- Reactions of Oxygen Free Radicals and Singlet Oxygen.- Detection of Oxygen Species and Singlet Oxygen. Environmental Aspects: Biological Damage Caused by Reactive Oxygen Species.- Possible Useful Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species.- Cell and Tissue Mechanisms of Protection Against Oxygen Free Radicals and Singlet Oxygen Damage.- Role of Oxygen Species in Air and Water Environments.- Subject Index.