Reactive oxygen species as double-edged swords in cellular processes: low-dose cell signaling versus high-dose

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Updated: Sep 30, 2026

High Throughput Screening Assessment of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Generation using Dihydroethidium (DHE) Fluorescence Dye
05:16

High Throughput Screening Assessment of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Generation using Dihydroethidium (DHE) Fluorescence Dye

Published on: January 19, 2024

K R Martin1, J C Barrett

  • 1Laboratory of Environmental Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA. martin9@niehs.nih.gov

Human & Experimental Toxicology
|July 10, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a dual role in cells, impacting cell signaling at low levels and DNA damage at high levels. Understanding ROS effects is crucial for predicting antioxidant impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are integral to biological systems.
  • While excessive ROS cause DNA damage, low levels modulate cell signaling.
  • The precise roles of ROS in apoptosis and mitogenesis are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the dose-dependent effects of ROS on cellular responses.
  • To elucidate the contribution of ROS to cell number homeostasis.
  • To understand the implications of ROS signaling in cellular functions.

Main Methods:

  • Cellular stimulation with varying doses of ROS.
  • Analysis of cell signaling cascades.
  • Assessment of redox potential and balance.

Main Results:

  • ROS dose critically influences cellular outcomes, but dose-response curves are unpredictable.
  • Cell signaling cascades are activated upon ROS stimulation.
  • Redox potential is a key determinant of cell function.

Conclusions:

  • ROS exhibit complex roles in cellular processes, influencing signaling and homeostasis.
  • Antioxidants may have dual effects, offering protection or promoting pathogenesis.
  • Further research is essential to clarify ROS functions and antioxidant impacts.

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