A type of unstable molecule that contains oxygen and that easily reacts with other molecules in a cell. A build up of oxygen radicals in cells may cause damage to DNA, RNA, and proteins, and may cause cell death. An oxygen radical is a free radical. Also called reactive oxygen species.
( OK-sih-jen RA-dih-kul )
Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
Search the Glossary of Medical Terms
Newsletter
Sign up for the QuackTrack.org newsletter below!