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Updated: May 24, 2026

Production and Detection of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in Cancers
07:17

Production and Detection of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in Cancers

Published on: November 21, 2011

Mitochondria and reactive oxygen species. Which role in physiology and pathology?

Giorgio Lenaz1

  • 1Dipartimento di Biochimica, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy. giorgio.lenaz@unibo.it

Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|March 9, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Oxidative stress, caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), damages cells and contributes to aging and diseases. Cells possess defense mechanisms against ROS, but understanding these processes is key to combating associated pathologies.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and cellular antioxidant defenses.
  • Mitochondria, particularly Complexes I and III, are primary ROS sources, but other enzymes and molecules also contribute.
  • ROS can damage cellular components like lipids, proteins, and DNA, and alter signaling pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the multifaceted origins and consequences of oxidative stress.
  • To highlight the cellular defense mechanisms against ROS-induced damage.
  • To underscore the role of oxidative stress in aging and various diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on ROS generation and cellular responses.
  • Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying oxidative damage.
  • Examination of the link between oxidative stress and pathological conditions.

Main Results:

  • Identified key intracellular sources of ROS, including mitochondrial complexes and specific enzymes.
  • Described the damaging effects of ROS on cellular macromolecules and signaling pathways.
  • Highlighted the presence of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems for cellular protection.

Conclusions:

  • Oxidative stress is a significant factor in cellular toxicity, aging, and diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration.
  • Cellular defense systems play a crucial role in mitigating ROS-induced damage.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the complex mechanisms involved in oxidative stress and its pathological implications.

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