Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (ROS generation)

"Cellular components via ROS generation" refers to a therapeutic mechanism and biological process rather than a single molecular target. It involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)—such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals—which act as potent oxidizing agents that damage vital cellular components including DNA, lipids, and proteins [1]. This mechanism is a cornerstone of many cancer treatments, where drugs or radiation are used to elevate ROS levels beyond the threshold that a cell's antioxidant systems can manage, thereby inducing apoptosis [2]. While ROS play a role in normal physiological signaling at low levels, their uncontrolled generation leads to oxidative stress, contributing to the pathology of inflammation, aging, and various chronic diseases [3]. Many established drugs, including doxorubicin and cisplatin, exert their effects at least in part through the generation of ROS, although this lack of specificity often results in significant side effects like cardiotoxicity [4]. Furthermore, the therapeutic challenge in targeting this process lies in the ability of cancer cells to adapt by upregulating antioxidant enzymes, which can lead to drug resistance [5]. Consequently, researchers are exploring ways to selectively increase ROS in tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue to improve the therapeutic index of pro-oxidant therapies [6]. Citations: [1] Sies, H., & Jones, D. P. (2020). Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology. [2] Gorrini, C., et al. (2013). Nature Reviews Drug Discovery. [3] Moloney, J. N., & Cotter, T. G. (2018). Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology. [4] Trachootham, D., et al. (2009). Nature Reviews Drug Discovery. [5] Harris, I. S., & DeNicola, G. M. (2020). Trends in Cancer. [6] Wang, J., & Yi, J. (2008). Cancer Biology & Therapy.

Other names

Cellular components via ROS generationOxidative stress inductionROS productionOxygen radical generationPro-oxidant therapyReactive oxygen species-mediated cellular damage

Induction of oxidative stress through the generation of reactive oxygen species, leading to the oxidative modification and degradation of DNA, lipids, and proteins, which ultimately triggers cell death pathways.