Reactive oxygen species production pathways (ROS production pathways)

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production pathways refer to the biochemical routes through which oxygen-derived chemically active molecules, such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals, are generated within cells [1]. Major enzymatic sources include the NADPH oxidase (NOX) family, xanthine oxidase, and the mitochondrial electron transport chain, particularly Complexes I and III [1, 2]. Under physiological conditions, ROS act as essential signaling molecules involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and the immune response, where they facilitate the destruction of invading pathogens [2, 4]. However, an imbalance between ROS production and the cell's antioxidant defense mechanisms leads to oxidative stress, which causes oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA [1, 5]. This damage is a hallmark of various pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer progression [4, 5]. Pharmacological intervention typically targets specific ROS-generating enzymes, such as using Allopurinol to inhibit xanthine oxidase or developing NOX inhibitors, to mitigate tissue damage while attempting to preserve necessary physiological signaling [3, 6].

Other names

ROS generationOxidative stress pathwaysPro-oxidant pathwaysRedox signaling pathways

Inhibition of ROS-generating enzymes (e.g., NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase), scavenging of existing reactive species, or modulation of mitochondrial electron transport chain activity to reduce electron leakage [1, 3, 6].