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From: <gmiiii@in*.co*>
Date: Thu, 9 Nov 1995 04:48:27 -0800
Subject: O2 toxicity
To: techdiver@terra.net


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Date: Wed, 8 Nov 1995 22:37:38 -1000
From: Anthony Montgomery <amontgom@ha*.ed*>
To: techdiver <techdiver@terra.net>

Here's a biochemically question:

	Today I learn how O2 toxicity starts.  It begins toward the end of the 
electron transport chain when O2 is reduced into H2O.  Ctyochrome oxidase 
binds O2 in an Fe-Cu complex allowing the O2 to accept four 
electrons to produce two molecules of H2O.  This is the normal pathway, 
but if O2 does not accept four complete electrons, then a Superoxide 
anion is produced.  This is a very destructive compound and is the 
begining of O2 toxicity.  The Superoxide anion is not produced under 
normal circumstances (except for small amounts) and I assume it is 
produced when the conditions are met to cause O2 toxicity such as 
extended periods of pure O2 or high ppO2.  What is the direct chemical 
interaction that causes the Superoxide anion to be produced?  Is it 
caused by the bombardment of O2 molecules in the reaction so the 
electrons that would go into the reduction of O2 actual starts binding to 
the O2 molecules yielding the Superoxide anion?
	Also, I assume the Superoxide anion interfers with the neural 
pathways and this is what causes the actual symptoms of O2 toxicity.  Is 
there a biochemical/physoilogical explaination for this as well?
	Another question:  I discussed this with my prof. and he 
mentioned that the Superoxide anion has another side effect.  This 
molecule can alter the Guanine base on DNA;therfore, when this base is 
replicated it produces the wrong base pair match.  This in turn can 
create mutations and possibly long term, irreversible side effects.  Are 
there any known cases of this happening from diving high pp O2s?  This 
has been a problem among athletes.  
Any explanations for these reactions would be greatly appreciated!!  Any 
flames on this subject are also welcome!!

Aloha
Tony


		ANTHONY MONTGOMERY
Marine Option Program		Waikiki Aquarium
1000 Pope Road  MSB #203	2777 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, Hawaii  96822		Honolulu, Hawaii   96815
Fax: (808) 956-2417		Fax: (808) 923-1771
Phone:  (808) 956-6000		Phone: (808) 923-9741




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