Abstract
Several recent studies have shown that the rates of formation of adduct radicals between carbon-centred radicals and aromatic molecules are virtually diffusion-controlled and reversible. This contrasts with "radical addition", the well-known multistep reaction in preparative organic chemistry where the rate-determining initial formation of radical adducts is perceived to be several orders of magnitude slower and virtually irreversible. Using pulse radiolysis and spectroscopic analysis, we have now re-examined parts of this complex mechanism. The results have significant implications for biological systems: electron-rich, aromatic structures may act like buffers for radicals, moderating their reactivity resulting in a much slower reaction determining the overall rate of oxidation. In vivo, an organism would gain time for an appropriate antioxidant reaction.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 24572-24582 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics : PCCP |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 42 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 14 Nov 2020 |