Peroxy nitrite anion

Additional physical studies and calculations have been performed on peroxy-nitrite (Koppenol and Klasinc, 1993 Kraus, 1994)- Part of the infrared spectrum of peroxynitrite anion in a solid state matrix has been reported (Plumb and Edwards, 1991). 

A striking example is control of the steady state level of superoxide radical anion (Oj"). Although superoxide anions are not very reactive, they playa prominent role in oxidative stress by triggering formation of peroxy nitrite. The control of their steady state level is thus vital for cells. In most living organisms the well-known metalloenzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), present in almost all aerobic cells catalyzes the disproportionation of into HjOj and Oj ... 

The superoxide radical anion reacts at an exceptionally high rate (k = 1.9 x 10 lmol s ) with nitrogen oxide (NO), the monomer being present as the free radical, to give peroxy nitrite (ONOO ). NO is formed in animal and plant foods from arginine by nitrogen oxide synthase (cf. 9.8.1). It is relatively stable with a half life of 400 s (H2O). Peroxy nitrite is a versatile oxidant it oxidizes unsaturated fatty acids, ascorbic acid, tocopherols, uric acid and amino acids, among... 

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