[Apoptosis and carcinogenesis in aging: oxygen-peroxide aspect]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology

Context:

• Aging, cancerogenesis, and apoptosis are complex biological processes with multifactorial origins.
• The role of oxidative stress and the oxygen-peroxide concept have been investigated as potential unifying mechanisms.
• Understanding the early cellular events is crucial for elucidating the progression of these conditions.

Purpose:

• To present new findings supporting the oxygen-peroxide concept of aging, cancerogenesis, and apoptosis.
• To elucidate the role of cellular respiration dysfunction and subsequent oxidative stress in initiating these processes.
• To highlight the function of signaling molecules, such as active oxygen forms and peroxides, in both the initiation and execution phases.

Summary:

• Cellular respiration dysfunction initiates oxidative stress, first in mitochondria, then in the cytoplasm and cell.
• Excessive formation of active oxygen forms and lipid/protein peroxides creates a pro- and antioxidant imbalance.
• This imbalance, particularly pronounced in aging, tumor, and apoptosis cells, is critical for initiating and executing aging, carcinogenesis, and apoptosis.

Impact:

• Provides a unified concept linking cellular dysfunction to major biological processes like aging and cancer.
• Identifies key signaling molecules (active oxygen, peroxides) that mediate these processes.
• Suggests potential therapeutic targets by influencing the balance of pro- and antioxidants and downstream effectors.