Abstract
Peroxynitrite (ONOO−) is both an oxidant and a nitrating agent (1–3). However, unlike other strong oxidants, peroxynitrite reacts selectively with biological targets. This selectivity is derived in part from the different second-order rate constants (vary from 103–106 M −1 s−1) by which ONOO− reacts with biological targets. Competing for peroxynitrite-mediated oxidation of biological targets are two pathways. One is the protonation to form peroxynitrous acid and the second is the reaction with CO2. Peroxynitrous acid is also an oxidant but it readily isomerizes to nitrate. The reaction with CO2 results in the formation of the ONO(O)CO2 − adduct that is a more potent nitrating agent but a weaker oxidant than peroxynitrite. Peroxynitrite can diffuse through biological membranes before it encounters and reacts with biological targets. This observation implies that diffusion can effectively compete with the isomerization to nitrate or the reaction with CO2.
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© 2000 Humana Press Inc.
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Malcolm, S., Foust, R., Hertkorn, C., Ischiropoulos, H. (2000). Detection of Peroxynitrite in Biological Fluids. In: Evans, T.J. (eds) Septic Shock Methods and Protocols. Methods in Molecular Medicine™, vol 36. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1385/1-59259-216-3:171
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1385/1-59259-216-3:171
Publisher Name: Humana Press
Print ISBN: 978-0-89603-730-4
Online ISBN: 978-1-59259-216-6
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