Diaryl-1,2,4-oxadiazole antioxidants: Synthesis and properties of inhibiting the oxidation of DNA and scavenging radicals

► Scavenging ABTS+. and DPPH of six core-branched antioxidants. ► Effects of oxadiazole derivatives on Cu2+/glutathione-, .OH-, and AAPH-induced oxidation of DNA. ► Only few phenolic hydroxyl groups can exhibit strong antioxidant effect.