Achieving the balance between ROS and antioxidants: when to use the synthetic antioxidants

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Free radical damage and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation are implicated in degenerative diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, cataracts, and aging.
• Oxidative stress, an imbalance favoring ROS, leads to cellular damage and potential cell death, countered by cellular antioxidant networks.
• While antioxidants can mitigate ROS damage in vitro, their in vivo efficacy is complex, with some studies showing no benefit or increased mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the dual role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cellular signaling and damage.
• To evaluate the complex effects of antioxidant supplementation on health and mortality.
• To highlight the need for personalized assessment of oxidative stress levels before antioxidant intervention.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on free radical damage, oxidative stress, and antioxidant networks.
• Analysis of studies investigating the impact of antioxidant therapy and multivitamin/mineral supplements (MVMs).
• Discussion of the dual role of ROS as both damaging agents and signaling molecules.

Main Results:

• Oxidative stress is a double-edged sword; while damaging, ROS also function as crucial signaling molecules.
• Antioxidant supplementation does not universally benefit health and may increase mortality in some cases.
• The balance between ROS production and antioxidant scavenging is critical for homeostasis; extremes of either are detrimental.

Conclusions:

• Neither excessive oxidative stress nor excessive antioxidant activity is optimal for health.
• Accurate determination of an individual's oxidative stress status is essential before recommending antioxidant supplements.
• Personalized medicine approaches are needed to optimize antioxidant interventions and avoid potential harm.