DNA and cellular macromolecules affected by reactive oxygen species (ROS-damaged macromolecules)

DNA and cellular macromolecules, including proteins and lipids, are the primary biological entities susceptible to damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS) during periods of oxidative stress (Ray et al., 2012, Cell Signal). ROS-induced DNA damage often manifests as base modifications, such as 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, or strand breaks, which can lead to mutations and contribute to oncogenesis (Valavanidis et al., 2009, J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev). Proteins affected by ROS undergo oxidative modifications like carbonylation and nitration, which can result in loss of enzymatic function or toxic aggregation, while lipid peroxidation disrupts the structural integrity and fluidity of cellular membranes (NIH, 2023, National Institute of General Medical Sciences). Although these macromolecules are not traditional therapeutic targets with specific binding pockets, they are the functional units that antioxidant drugs like Edaravone aim to protect by neutralizing free radicals before damage occurs (Mullard, 2017, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). Consequently, monitoring the state of these macromolecules through specific biomarkers is essential for assessing the efficacy of redox-modulating therapies in diseases ranging from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis to various cancers.

Other names

Oxidative stress targetsROS substratesOxidized cellular componentsMacromolecular ROS targetsReactive oxygen species-mediated damage sites

Antioxidant scavenging of reactive oxygen species to prevent oxidative modification and degradation of cellular components