Endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms

Endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms comprise the body's primary means of protecting itself from oxidative stress via a network of enzymes (such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic molecules (such as glutathione and melatonin). These systems neutralize reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, repair or mitigate oxidative damage, and maintain redox balance, serving crucial roles in preventing cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, cancerous, and other oxidative stress-related diseases. Because this refers to a biological process rather than a distinct molecule or receptor, it is not considered a canonical therapeutic target and encompasses a variety of molecular entities acting together.

Other names

Endogenous antioxidant systemAntioxidant defense systemCellular antioxidant networkEndogenous antioxidant pathway

Scavenging of reactive oxygen species Catalysis of redox reactions (conversion of ROS to less harmful species) Regeneration of other antioxidants (e.g., GSH regenerates oxidized vitamin C and E) Upregulation of antioxidant enzyme expression (e.g., via Nrf2 signaling)