The carbonate radical and related oxidants derived from bicarbonate buffer

The unequivocal demonstration that the carbonate radical (CO3 •‐) is produced from the reaction between the ubiquitous carbon dioxide and peroxynitrite, renewed the interest in the pathogenic roles of oxidants derived from the main physiological buffer, the bicarbonate‐carbon dioxide pair. Here, we review the biochemical properties of both the carbonate radical and peroxymonocarbonate (HCO4 ‐), and discuss the evidence of their formation under physiological conditions. Overall, the review emphasizes the recognition of the biological relevance of oxidants derived from the main physiological buffer as a crucial step into the understanding and control of numerous pathological states. IUBMB Life, 59: 1 ‐ 8, 2007 IUBMB Life, 59: 255‐262, 2007