Free Radicals

Cancer Terms -> Drugs and Chemicals -> Drugs and Chemicals Structural Classification -> Inorganic Chemical -> Free Radicals

Free Radicals Definition

Molecules or atoms with at least one unpaired or 'free' electron in the outermost electron shell. Chemically unstable, free radicals stabilize themselves by appropriating an electron from a nearby molecule, thereby damaging that molecule by altering the electron number in its outermost electron shell. By-products of both normal cell processes and environmental toxin exposure, oxygen free-radicals in high concentrations may damage DNA, proteins, and lipids, thereby increasing the risk for various diseases including cancer. (NCI04)

Free Radicals Synonyms

Free Radical, Free Radicals, free radicals

Terms in Free Radicals category

Oxygen Radicals