Reactive oxygen species accumulation pathway

The "Reactive oxygen species accumulation pathway" refers to the cellular processes and signaling events triggered by increased levels of reactive oxygen species, which are chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen generated during normal metabolism and stress responses[5][3][1][2]. ROS accumulation can act as a signaling mechanism for physiological functions such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and immune response, but excessive ROS leads to oxidative damage of lipids, proteins, and DNA, contributing to cell death, apoptosis, and the pathogenesis of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular disorders[3][4][5][6][7][8]. ROS accumulation is not a single target but a convergence point in multiple signaling and metabolic pathways, with some pharmacological agents designed to modulate ROS levels or sensitivity[7][8]. This entity does not represent a unique druggable target but rather a pathway/process; therefore, it does not align with standard molecular target schemas. For therapeutic context, individual enzymes (like NADPH oxidases, mitochondrial complexes, etc.) within this pathway are considered true targets[7].

Other names

ROS accumulation pathwayoxidative stress signalingincreased ROSoxidative damage pathway

Enzyme inhibition (e.g., NADPH oxidase inhibition to reduce ROS production)[7] ROS scavenging (neutralizing excess ROS with antioxidants)[5] Induction of oxidative cell death (overwhelming cellular antioxidant defenses to promote cell death in cancer)[4][6][8]