Beyond Food Preservation: Translational Perspectives of Synthetic Antioxidants

Synthetic antioxidants are attracting more interest as research moves beyond their traditional use as preservatives in food and materials. Recent studies are exploring how these redox-active molecules might be used in medicine. This review looks at how synthetic antioxidants are made, what is known about their biological effects, and the challenges of using them for neuroprotection, cancer treatment, organ protection, and regenerative medicine. In this review, synthetic antioxidants are defined as synthetic or semisynthetic small molecules with redox activity. Other antioxidant systems, such as non-phenolic molecules, prodrugs, peptides, metal complexes, nanocarriers, nanozymes, and biomaterials, are mentioned as related but are not considered classic synthetic antioxidants. Some of these compounds and delivery systems have shown promising results in cell, tissue, and animal studies. They have been found to influence neuroinflammation, mitochondrial function, and tumor redox responses, and to protect tissues from ischemic or inflammatory damage. However, most of these candidates are still in preclinical development. Progress is slowed by issues such as inconsistent bioavailability, dose-dependent toxicity, unclear mechanisms of action, a lack of reliable biomarkers, and manufacturing or regulatory challenges, especially for advanced delivery systems. New research highlights the potential of hybrid molecules, organelle-targeted delivery, and systems that respond to specific triggers. Still, there is not enough strong clinical data to support these approaches. Moving forward, the field will need thorough pharmacological studies, careful safety checks, standardized ways to measure effectiveness, and well-designed clinical trials.