reperfusion damage

Caused by formation of free radicals that are highly reactive and could destroy cells in their path. They can cause chain reactions that can lead to cellular damage and death. When blockage of a coronary artery deprives the heart muscle of O2, reperfusion, the reestablishing of the blood flow may damage the tissue further. the body produces 2 enzymes that neutralise these free radicals - superoxide dimustase and catalase. Other minerlas such as vitamin E and C are also antioxidants.