The antioxidant properties of serum albumin

Abstract 

Free radicals are a normal component of cellular oxygen metabolism in mammals. However, free radical-associated damage is an important factor in many pathological processes. Glycation and oxidative damage cause protein modifications, frequently observed in numerous diseases. Albumin represents a very abundant and important circulating antioxidant. This review brings together recent insights on albumin antioxidant properties. First, it focuses on the different activities of albumin concerning protein antioxidation. In particular, we describe the role of albumin in ligand binding and free radical-trapping activities. In addition, physiological and pathological situations that modify the antioxidant properties of albumin are reported.

Abbreviations: AGE, advanced glycation end products, ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome, CML, N(epsilon)-(carboxymethyl)lysine, H₂O₂, hydrogen peroxide, HSA, human serum albumin, LCFA, long-chain fatty acids, LDL, low-density lipoprotein, NO, nitric oxide, RAGE, receptor for advanced glycation end products, RNS, reactive nitrogen species, ROS, reactive oxygen species

Keywords: Serum albumin, Antioxidant, Oxidative stress, Oxidation