Cellular Signaling Pathways and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS Signaling)

Cellular signaling pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) encompass a complex network of biochemical interactions where oxygen-derived molecules function as critical secondary messengers. At physiological concentrations, ROS such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radicals regulate vital processes including cell growth, differentiation, and the innate immune response by modifying the activity of redox-sensitive proteins [Sies & Jones, 2020, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology]. However, a persistent imbalance between ROS production and the cellular antioxidant capacity leads to oxidative stress, which contributes to the pathophysiology of cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases by damaging genomic DNA and cellular membranes [Ray et al., 2012, Cellular Signalling]. Therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways aim to restore redox balance using antioxidants or Nrf2 activators, though some oncology treatments utilize pro-oxidants to overwhelm cancer cell defenses [NIH, 2023]. Despite their importance, targeting these pathways is clinically challenging because broad-spectrum antioxidants can interfere with necessary physiological signals, a phenomenon often called the 'antioxidant paradox.' This entry is considered 'incorrect' as a target because it describes a broad biological system rather than a single, specific druggable molecule.

Other names

Redox signalingOxidative stress pathwaysROS-mediated signalingRedox homeostasis

Modulation of the intracellular redox state through the scavenging of free radicals, induction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes via the Nrf2/ARE pathway, or the intentional induction of oxidative stress to trigger programmed cell death in pathological cells.