Antioxidant Potential of Zinc and Copper with Ascorbic Acid

Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid (AA), is a powerful antioxidant that is necessary for many bodily processes. Nevertheless, in a number of circumstances, its stability and effectiveness may be jeopardized. AA's stability and antioxidant capability may be improved by adding metal ions like copper and zinc through synergistic interactions. In this work, zinc and copper-ascorbate complexes are synthesized, their structures are characterized, and their antioxidant properties are assessed.

Objectives: Examine how zinc and copper, when combined with ascorbic acid, affect oxidative stress markers or indications of cell or tissue damage in order to ascertain if they strengthen the body's defenses against oxidative damage.

Methods: Synthesis

Zinc-Ascorbate Complex Synthesis: Mix 5 g of ascorbic acid with 100 mL of purified water. 2.75g of zinc sulfate heptahydrate solution should be added drop wise while being continuously stirred. Adjust the pH with a 0.1 M NaOH solution to 6.0–7.0. Stir the mixture at room temperature for two hours. Use distilled water to wash after filtering the resultant precipitate. The precipitate should be dried in a vacuum desiccators. Synthesis of Copper-Ascorbate Complex Synthesis: Follow the same procedure as for zinc-ascorbate Substituting zinc sulfate with 2.5 g of copper sulfate pentahydrate.

Results: The synthesis of zinc and copper-incorporated ascorbic acid complexes resulted in a notable enhancement of antioxidant activity when compared to ascorbic acid alone. Experimental data indicated that the zinc and copper ions, when incorporated into the ascorbic acid structure, contributed to a synergistic effect that amplified the free radical scavenging capabilities of the complex. This was measured using various assays, such as DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging tests, which showed a significant increase in the antioxidant potential of the modified ascorbic acid.

 Conclusions: The synthesis of zinc and copper-incorporated ascorbic acid complexes significantly enhances the antioxidant activity compared to ascorbic acid alone. These findings suggest potential applications in developing advanced antioxidant formulations for nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Future research should focus on in vivo studies to further validate the therapeutic potential and safety of these complexes.