Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species signaling in macrophages (ROS/RNS signaling)

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) signaling in macrophages is a complex physiological process rather than a single molecular target. It involves the coordinated production of reactive molecules like superoxide (O2•−) and nitric oxide (NO) by enzymes such as NADPH oxidase (NOX2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) [1][2]. These species function as potent antimicrobial agents during the innate immune response and as secondary messengers that modulate key transcription factors like NF-κB and AP-1 [3]. Dysregulation of this signaling network is a hallmark of chronic inflammatory conditions, autoimmune diseases, and cancer, where persistent oxidative stress drives tissue injury [4]. Pharmacological strategies aimed at this pathway include the use of antioxidants, NOX inhibitors, and iNOS antagonists, though achieving specificity without compromising host immunity remains a significant therapeutic challenge [5]. (Citations: [1] Mittal M, et al. 2014, Antioxidants & Redox Signaling; [2] Bogdan C. 2001, Nature Immunology; [3] Forman HJ, Torres M. 2002, Gene; [4] Nathan C, Cunningham-Bussel A. 2013, Nature Reviews Immunology; [5] Lambeth JD. 2004, Nature Reviews Immunology).

Other names

Macrophage oxidative burstRedox signaling in macrophagesOxidative and nitrosative stress pathwayROS/RNS signaling pathway

Inhibition of ROS/RNS-generating enzymes (e.g., NOX2, iNOS), scavenging of reactive intermediates, and modulation of redox-sensitive transcription factors to restore homeostatic balance.