Which part of the body does free radical damage primarily affect?

Free radical damage primarily affects the cell membrane. This is because free radicals are highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons that can easily interact with various cellular components. The cell membrane is particularly susceptible to this type of damage because it is made up of lipid layers, which can be oxidized by free radicals. The oxidation of lipids results in lipid peroxidation, compromising the integrity and functionality of the cell membrane.

When the cell membrane is damaged, it can lead to a loss of barrier function, altered permeability, and disruption of cellular communication. These changes can ultimately affect the health and viability of the cell. In contrast, while nucleic acids and cytoplasmic components may also be affected by oxidative stress, the primary and immediate impact is often observed in the cell membrane due to its exposure to environmental factors and oxidative agents.