Relationship of Organic Acids to Reactive Oxygen Species and Oxidative Stress in Biochemistry and Drug Action

Peter Kovacic and Ratnasamy So

Abstract

This report deals with involvement of organic acids, such as acetic, citric and lactic, in biochemistry and drug actions. In certain cases, there is participation in physiological action of electron transfer, reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. Electron transfer agents include quinones, metals, ArNO2 and imines. Acids play important roles in transamination, electron transfer processes and antibiotic action. Much attention has been devoted to vinegar (acetic acid) as a condiment with health benefits.