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Oxidant signals and oxidative stress
1Cardiovascular Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, , Bethesda, MD 20892-1622, USA. finkelt@nih.gov
Current Opinion in Cell Biology
|March 22, 2003
Summary
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are now understood to be regulated signaling molecules, not just random oxidants. Recent research clarifies their specific targets and roles in cellular processes like aging and cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Cellular Signaling
- Oxidative Stress Research
Background:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were traditionally viewed as damaging byproducts of metabolism.
- Emerging evidence indicates ROS can function in specific, regulated cellular signaling pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight recent advances in understanding the specific targets of intracellular oxidants.
- To explore the diverse biological pathways that utilize oxidants as effector molecules.
- To update the understanding of ROS involvement in key physiological and pathological processes.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on redox biology and signaling.
- Analysis of studies identifying specific protein targets of ROS.
- Investigation of cellular pathways employing ROS in their mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Identification of specific redox-dependent targets for intracellular oxidants.
- Elucidation of numerous pathways where ROS act as critical signaling molecules.
- Demonstration of ROS involvement in complex processes such as tumor development and aging.
Conclusions:
- The role of ROS in cellular functions is more nuanced and specific than previously thought.
- Understanding regulated ROS signaling is crucial for comprehending various biological processes.
- Further research into ROS pathways will impact fields from oncology to gerontology.