Lipid peroxidation in cell membrane

Lipid peroxidation refers to the oxidative degradation of lipids, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids, in cell membranes. This process is initiated by reactive oxygen species, which abstract hydrogens from lipid chains, resulting in lipid radicals and subsequent peroxides (lipid hydroperoxides). The resulting lipid peroxidation products alter the physical and biochemical properties of membranes, increase permeability, decrease membrane fluidity, and compromise membrane integrity, often triggering cell death via apoptosis or ferroptosis. Its end-products, such as reactive aldehydes (MDA, 4-HNE), have cytotoxic and mutagenic potential and act as both damage mediators and disease biomarkers. Excessive lipid peroxidation has been implicated as a pathogenic mechanism in neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and inflammation. Antioxidant enzymes, dietary antioxidants, and pharmacological inhibitors can protect against or modulate the extent of lipid peroxidation.

Other names

Lipid oxidationmembrane lipid peroxidationLPOlipid peroxidationlipid peroxide formation

Antioxidants donate electrons/hydrogen atoms to neutralize lipid radicals or lipid hydroperoxides, breaking chain reactions. Iron chelators reduce available catalytic iron to suppress radical formation and lipid peroxidation. Lipoxygenase and cytochrome P450 inhibitors block enzymatic initiation of peroxidation.