**9. Conclusions**

The aim of the present contribution is to provide the reader with some hints on how to make one's way in the labyrinth of available information on AsA. What we know for sure is that AsA can prevent and cure the disease known as scurvy, which is caused by the inactivation of some enzymes belonging to the large class of dioxygenases. The reducing properties of AsA, and its ability to react with ROS are also undeniable facts. We know that AsA is involved in the signaling module regulated by the HIF1α transcription factor. In addition, many reports confirm the beneficial effects of AsA under diverse conditions, while a few other express some doubts about its efficacy. It is often presumed that any positive effect of AsA is due to its capability to remove reactive oxygen species, but this opinion is challenged by an increasing number of reports, showing that the ROS/antioxidant dynamics are much more complex than we thought only a few decades ago. Eventually, future research on AsA should take into due consideration the possibility that AsA acts as a unique regulator of multiple cell responses, especially in relation to variable environmental conditions. This novel approach will hopefully open a new chapter in the long but still mysterious story of vitamin C.
