Oxidation-related pathways

Oxidation-related pathways refer to a broad and complex network of biochemical reactions responsible for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and managing the production and elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These pathways encompass the activity of various antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and the glutathione system, as well as regulatory signaling axes like the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. In a healthy physiological state, these processes allow ROS to function as important secondary messengers in cell signaling; however, an imbalance leads to oxidative stress, which causes cumulative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids. Such dysregulation is a central feature in the pathogenesis of many chronic conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and various cardiovascular disorders. Therapeutic interventions in this area generally focus on either neutralizing excessive ROS directly or pharmacologically upregulating the cell's endogenous antioxidant defenses to mitigate tissue injury (Source: NIH, PubMed, PMID: 22759583).

Other names

Oxidative stress pathwaysRedox signaling pathwaysCellular oxidation-reduction processesAntioxidant defense systemsReactive oxygen species metabolism

Drugs targeting these pathways typically act by activating antioxidant transcription factors like Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2), inhibiting enzymes that generate reactive oxygen species such as xanthine oxidase or NADPH oxidase, or directly scavenging free radicals to restore cellular redox balance (Source: PMID: 29019082, PMID: 28551167).