Helmut Sies, MDInstitute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I |
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Abstract: A set of four principles underlying redox biology has been denoted as the "Redox Code" (1). First, redox regulation utilizes the NAD+ and NADP+ systems in catabolic and anabolic metabolic pathways, respectively, and small molecular mass compounds, termed bioactives, play a role in pool size and certain functions, e.g. as precursors of substrate reacting with SIRT3. Second, thiol redox transitions are used in redox signaling via the sulfenome; again, bioactives can modulate by addressing molecular redox switches such as Nrf2/Keap1. Third, the hydrogen peroxide tone in oxidative eustress (2) is controlled, in part, by links with bioactives. Fourth, the global redox network involves set-points which are under the influence of bioactives. Examples for these four areas of active research will be given: nicotinamide, sulforaphane, selenocompounds, polyphenols. Bioactives are functional in dampening postprandial oxidative stress. A brief comment on the conundrum of terminology regarding bioactives, nonessential nutrients, micronutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and their relation to oxidative stress (3) will conclude the presentation. |