ABSTRACT
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated under various conditions in the living body. A small percentage of the oxygen utilized in the mitochondria is converted to superoxides during the electron transport chain reaction. The skeletal muscle, being a large metabolic organ, is a major source of ROS production. Various anti-oxidizing factors such as vitamins, carotenoids, and polyphenols are present in natural foods. The effects of these antioxidants were examined in athletic sports. Intake of certain antioxidants suppresses the exercise-generated oxidative stress, which could potentially attenuate fatigue and improve muscle strength. ROS accelerate muscle atrophy via several pathways. It is well known that ROS stimulate protein degradation via activation of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Polyubiquitinated proteins accumulate in muscle tissues during muscle atrophy. It is well established that excess ROS have a negative influence on force generation in the skeletal muscle.
