Oxidative stress in ocular tissues

Oxidative stress in ocular tissues refers to a pathological state in which reactive oxygen species (ROS) production exceeds the capacity of antioxidant defenses, leading to molecular damage in eye structures such as the cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve[1][5]. This imbalance is heightened by the eye’s exposure to light, high metabolic demands, and environmental insults. Oxidative stress is intricately involved in the onset and progression of a wide range of ocular diseases, including cataract, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and dry eye disease. While not a single druggable target, the collective pathway of oxidative stress is a therapeutic focus, with intervention strategies including antioxidant supplementation, enhancement of endogenous antioxidant systems, and reduction of exogenous ROS[1][3][5]. Common biomarkers include various products of lipid peroxidation and enzymatic antioxidant activities. Safety concerns for systemic or excessive antioxidant therapy include interfering with physiological roles of ROS or unintended systemic effects.

Other names

Oxidative stress in the eyeOcular oxidative stressRedox imbalance in ocular tissues

Free radical scavenging Upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (e.g., SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) Reduction of ROS-induced cellular damage[1][3] Inhibition of downstream pro-inflammatory and apoptotic pathways activated by ROS[5]