Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Activation of Apoptosis by Cytoplasmic Microinjection of Cytochrome c
Published on: June 29, 2011
Cytotoxin-induced NADPH oxides activation: roles in regulation of cell death
Yongtao Zhang1, Xiaolei Bi, Fan Jiang
1Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 107 Wen Hua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
Abstract:
Numerous studies have shown that a variety of cytotoxic agents can activate the NADPH oxidase system and induce redox-dependent regulation of cellular functions. Cytotoxin-induced NADPH oxidase activation may either exert cytoprotective actions (e.g., survival, proliferation, and stress tolerance) or cause cell death. Here we summarize the experimental evidence showing the context-dependent dichotomous effects of NADPH oxidase on cell fate under cytotoxic stress conditions and the potential redox signaling mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. Clearly, it is difficult to create a unified paradigm on the toxicological implications of NADPH oxidase activation in response to cytotoxic stimuli. We suggest that interventional strategies targeting the NADPH oxidase system to prevent the adverse impacts of cytotoxins need to be contemplated in a stimuli- and cell type-specific manner.
Insights
Cytotoxic agents activate NADPH oxidase, influencing cell fate. This enzyme
Area of Science:
- Cellular biology
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cytotoxic agents activate the NADPH oxidase system, regulating cellular functions via redox signaling.
- NADPH oxidase activation by cytotoxins can lead to either cell survival or cell death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence on the dual effects of NADPH oxidase on cell fate under cytotoxic stress.
- To explore the redox signaling mechanisms behind these dichotomous effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental studies on NADPH oxidase activation by cytotoxic agents.
- Analysis of redox-dependent cellular responses and signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- NADPH oxidase activation exhibits context-dependent dichotomous effects on cell fate.
- Redox signaling mechanisms contribute to either cytoprotection or cytotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- A unified paradigm for NADPH oxidase's toxicological implications is challenging.
- Interventions targeting NADPH oxidase require stimuli- and cell type-specific approaches.
Related Concept Videos
Overview of Cell Death
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the...
Autophagic Cell Death
Autophagy and Apoptosis
Autophagy can activate apoptosis. In normal conditions, the autophagy activating protein Beclin-1 and...
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Necrosis
Morphological Manifestations of Necrosis
Necrotic cells show different types of morphological appearance depending on the type of tissue and infection. In coagulative necrosis, cells become...
Bioactivation and Tissue Toxicity

