Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy (also known as electron spin resonance, ESR, or electron magnetic resonance, EMR, spectroscopy) is often described as the "gold standard" for the detection and characterisation of radicals in chemical, biological and medical systems. The article reviews aspects of EPR spectroscopy and discusses how this methodology and related techniques can be used to obtain useful information from biological systems. Consideration is given to the direct detection of radicals, the use of spin traps and the detection of nitric oxide, and the advantages and pitfalls of various approaches. When used with care, this technique can provide a huge amount of valuable data on the presence of radicals, their identity and information on their concentration, structure, mobility and interactions. It is however a technique that has limitations, and the novice user needs to understand the various pitfalls and shortcomings of the method to avoid making significant errors.
Keywords: Electron paramagnetic resonance; Nitric oxide; Nitroxide; Radical; Spin trapping; Superoxide.
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