LIPID PEROXIDATION: AN OVERVIEW

Lipid peroxidation (LPO) in cellular membranes is associated with changes in physicochemical properties and impairment of protein functions located in membrane environment. Recent studies shows involvement of LPO in biological signaling and various diseases. Lipids are oxidized by three distinct mechanisms: enzymatic oxidation; non-enzymatic, free radical-mediated oxidation and non-enzymatic, non radical oxidation. Lipids containing polyunsaturated fatty acids are susceptible to free radical-initiated oxidation and can participate in chain reactions that increase damage to biomolecules. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and their metabolites have variety of physiological roles including: energy provision, membrane structure, cell signaling and regulation of gene expression. The present manuscript reviews concept of LPO with emphasis on implication in various diseases.