Reactive oxygen species-related enzymes and pathways (ROS pathways)

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related enzymes and pathways encompass a broad network of proteins responsible for the generation, regulation, and detoxification of oxygen-derived free radicals and non-radicals (e.g., superoxide, hydrogen peroxide). Key enzymatic components include pro-oxidants like NADPH oxidases (NOX) and antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (Source: NIH/StatPearls). Under normal physiological conditions, ROS act as vital secondary messengers in signal transduction pathways that regulate cell growth and immune responses (Source: PubMed). However, an imbalance known as oxidative stress occurs when ROS production exceeds the capacity of antioxidant defenses, leading to oxidative damage of DNA, proteins, and lipids (Source: UniProt). This damage is a primary driver in the pathogenesis of chronic conditions including atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and various cancers. Therapeutic interventions often target these pathways by either directly scavenging ROS or activating transcription factors like Nrf2 to upregulate the cell's natural antioxidant response (Source: Wikipedia/PubMed).

Other names

Oxidative stress pathwaysAntioxidant defense systemRedox signaling networkCellular redox homeostasis

Modulation of redox balance through direct ROS scavenging, enzymatic neutralization of superoxide or peroxides, or induction of endogenous antioxidant gene expression via the Nrf2/ARE signaling axis.