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Updated: May 15, 2026

Imaging Approaches to Assessments of Toxicological Oxidative Stress Using Genetically-encoded Fluorogenic Sensors
Published on: February 7, 2018
Oxidative stress and antioxidant defense
Esra Birben1, Umit Murat Sahiner, Cansin Sackesen
1Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Unit, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated during metabolism and from environmental factors, cause cellular damage. Oxidative stress occurs when antioxidant defenses are overwhelmed, contributing to numerous diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are byproducts of normal cellular metabolism and environmental exposures.
- ROS can damage cellular components like DNA, lipids, and proteins, disrupting normal function.
- An imbalance favoring oxidants over antioxidants leads to oxidative stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cellular oxidant and antioxidant systems.
- To discuss the cellular effects and mechanisms of oxidative stress.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cellular redox regulation.
- Synthesis of information on ROS production and antioxidant defense mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Cellular antioxidant systems (enzymatic and nonenzymatic) normally mitigate ROS damage.
- Pathological conditions can overwhelm these antioxidant defenses.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in a wide range of diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding cellular redox balance is crucial for cell viability and organ function.
- Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases.
- Further research into antioxidant systems may offer therapeutic targets.
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