Reactive oxygen species and oxidized biomolecules (ROS)

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive oxygen-containing molecules, including free radicals like superoxide and non-radicals like hydrogen peroxide, primarily generated as byproducts of mitochondrial respiration (Sies et al., 2017, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology). At physiological levels, ROS function as crucial signaling molecules in processes such as cell proliferation and the immune response; however, excessive production leads to oxidative stress (Schieber & Chandel, 2014, Current Biology). This stress results in the formation of oxidized biomolecules, where lipids, proteins, and DNA are chemically modified, leading to cellular dysfunction and death (Liguori et al., 2018, Clinical Interventions in Aging). These processes are central to the etiology of numerous pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, and cancer (Ray et al., 2012, Cell Signal). Therapeutic interventions, such as antioxidant drugs and radical scavengers like N-acetylcysteine or edaravone, aim to neutralize ROS or bolster endogenous defense systems (Forman & Zhang, 2021, Free Radical Biology and Medicine). Despite their potential, the clinical application of ROS-targeting agents remains complex due to the necessity of maintaining beneficial redox signaling (Gorrini et al., 2013, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). Biomarkers such as malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine are frequently used to monitor the extent of oxidative damage in clinical settings (Valavanidis et al., 2009, Journal of Environmental Science and Health).

Other names

Free radicalsOxidantsReactive oxygen metabolitesPro-oxidantsOxidative stress productsReactive nitrogen species

Direct chemical neutralization (scavenging) of free radicals, reduction of oxidized molecular substrates, and competitive inhibition of oxidative chain reactions.