Antioxidants and their Role against Free Radicals-Mediated Metabolic Disorders: A Review
Omada Adams Akogwu1*, Okpe John Mathias2, Abalaka Daniel
Hassan3, Oka Samson Ayodeji1, Odiba John Chubiyojo4, Ibrahim
Gladys Eleojo5, Kokori Bajeh Tijani6 and Obaje Gideon Sunday1
1Department of Medical Biochemistry, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba,
Nigeria
2Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of health Sciences, Otukpo, Nige-
ria
3Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja,
Nigeria
4Department of Biochemistry, Salem University, Lokoja, Nigeria
5Department of Biochemistry, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Nigeria
6Department of Pharmacology, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: Omada Adams Akogwu, Department of Medical Biochem-
istry, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Nigeria.
Received:
February 24, 2026 Published: March 12, 2026
Abstract
Maintaining biological equilibrium and ensuring optimal physiological performance requires a precise balance between the
production of free radicals and available antioxidant concentrations. This balance is typically sustained when endogenous defense
mechanisms specifically glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase regulate cellular free radicals below a critical threshold.
However, should radical generation surpass the capacity of this internal scavenging network, the integration of natural exogenous
antioxidants via dietary intake becomes vital for mitigating and forestalling oxidative damage. Persistent oxidative stress leads to
cellular degradation, playing a fundamental role in the clinical development of various chronic-degenerative and metabolic diseases.
Because oxidative stress stems from a disparity between pro-oxidant forces and the body’s antioxidant defense systems. Utilizing
supplemental antioxidants to reinforce endogenous antioxidant defenses is a recognized therapeutic approach. This strategy is
particularly effective in addressing metabolic disorders such as inflammatory states, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic
syndrome, as well as the biological progression of aging.
Keywords: Aantioxidant; Atherosclerosis; Free Radical; Metabolic Syndrome; Oxidative Stress
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