Hydroxyl radical piggybacking on hydrogen carbonate

The reaction of the hydroxyl radical and the hydrogen carbonate anion is studied computationally. The most stable product is the hydrate of the carbonate radical. Theoretical estimates of the involved thermodynamical functions and activation energies suggest the hydrogen carbonate anion may play a role as a transporter of the hydroxyl radical and a mediator leading to lowering of the oxidative stress. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.