Inflammatory and oxidative processes

Inflammatory and oxidative processes describe the interconnected physiological and pathological mechanisms involving immune activation and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Inflammation is a protective response to stimuli such as pathogens or tissue injury, but when chronic, it leads to tissue damage through the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Source: NIH, StatPearls, "Inflammation"). Oxidative stress occurs when the production of ROS exceeds the capacity of antioxidant systems, leading to oxidative damage to cellular components (Source: PubMed, PMID: 23626316). These two processes are mutually reinforcing; for instance, ROS can activate the NF-κB signaling pathway, which in turn promotes the expression of inflammatory genes (Source: PubMed, PMID: 19892413). While not a single molecular target, these processes are central to the pathology of cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, and cancer (Source: Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). Therapeutic strategies often involve targeting specific nodes within these processes, such as inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes or activating the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response (Source: PubChem). However, broad modulation of these pathways carries risks, including impaired immune surveillance and interference with essential redox-dependent signaling (Source: PubMed, PMID: 28412214).

Other names

Oxidative stress and inflammationRedox-inflammatory signalingInflamm-agingChronic low-grade inflammation

Modulation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB), inhibition of pro-oxidant enzymes (e.g., NADPH oxidase), and upregulation of antioxidant defenses via the Nrf2 pathway.