Microbial reactive oxygen species generation pathways (ROS pathways)

Microbial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation pathways refer to the collective metabolic and enzymatic processes that result in the production of highly reactive oxygen-containing molecules, such as superoxide (O2•−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and hydroxyl radicals (•OH), within microbial cells [1.2.1, 1.2.3]. The primary endogenous sources of ROS in microbes include the respiratory electron transport chain, where electrons leak to oxygen, and the autoxidation of flavoproteins [1.1.3, 1.2.1]. These pathways are critical in the mechanism of action for several classes of bactericidal antibiotics, which are thought to induce a common oxidative stress response leading to cellular death through damage to DNA, proteins, and membrane lipids [1.1.2, 1.2.1]. Additionally, novel antimicrobial strategies, including photodynamic therapy and the use of metal-based nanoparticles, specifically aim to overwhelm microbial antioxidant defenses by stimulating these ROS generation pathways [1.1.4, 1.2.3]. Despite their therapeutic potential, the non-specific nature of ROS poses challenges regarding host tissue toxicity and the potential for inducing mutations that could lead to antibiotic resistance [1.1.2, 1.2.3]. Furthermore, the efficacy of ROS-inducing therapies can be limited by the microbial ability to remodel metabolism, such as upregulating the glyoxylate shunt to reduce endogenous ROS formation [1.1.1, 1.1.2].

Other names

Microbial ROS productionBacterial oxidative stress pathwaysEndogenous ROS generation in microbes

Induction of endogenous ROS production, inhibition of antioxidant enzymes, and activation of the Fenton reaction to generate lethal hydroxyl radicals.