Glutathione also participates in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes that are needed for protein synthesis and cellular function. Vitamin A and other carotenoids such as -carotene, lutein, and lycopene are all effective radical scavengers. These vitamins are abundant in green plants, carrots, tomato, and other vegetables. Vitamin E is made up of naturally occurring compounds called tycopherols. They are highly active free radical scavengers, and protect lipid membranes from oxidation.
Tocopherols also are important in fertility.
These vitamins are found in fish, especially fish liver oil. Coenzyme Q-10 is a powerful reducing agent that prevents lipid peroxidation. It resides in the inner membrane of mitochondrion and plays an important role in the respiratory chain. While oxygen is an essential part of normal metabolism, its access can lead to a variety of damaging effects. Unsaturated lipids, proteins, and DNA are the components of the cell most vulnerable to oxidative damage.