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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
Bioluminescence Imaging of NADPH Oxidase Activity in Different Animal Models
Published on: October 22, 2012
NADPH oxidases and ROS signaling in the gastrointestinal tract
Gabriella Aviello1, Ulla G Knaus2
1The Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Reactive oxygen species (ROS), initially categorized as toxic by-products of aerobic metabolism, have often been called a double-edged sword. ROS are considered indispensable when host defense and redox signaling is concerned and a threat in inflammatory or degenerative diseases. This generalization does not take in account the diversity of oxygen metabolites being generated, their physicochemical characteristics and their production by distinct enzymes in space and time. NOX/DUOX NADPH oxidases are the only enzymes solely dedicated to ROS production and the prime ROS producer for intracellular and intercellular communication due to their widespread expression and intricate regulation. Here we discuss new insights of how NADPH oxidases act via ROS as multifaceted regulators of the intestinal barrier in homeostasis, infectious disease and intestinal inflammation. A closer look at monogenic VEOIBD and commensals as ROS source supports the view of H2O2 as key beneficial messenger in the barrier ecosystem.
Insights
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are vital for host defense and signaling, not just harmful. NADPH oxidases utilize ROS, particularly hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), to regulate the intestinal barrier in health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were historically viewed as toxic metabolic byproducts.
- ROS play dual roles in host defense, redox signaling, and disease pathogenesis.
- Generalizations about ROS overlook the diversity of oxygen metabolites and their sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted roles of NADPH oxidases (NOX/DUOX) in regulating the intestinal barrier.
- To investigate the involvement of ROS in intestinal homeostasis, infectious disease, and inflammation.
- To highlight the significance of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a beneficial signaling molecule in the gut.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on NOX/DUOX enzymes and ROS signaling.
- Analysis of ROS production in the context of intestinal barrier function.
- Examination of very early-onset inflammatory bowel disease (VEOIBD) and commensal microbiota as ROS sources.
Main Results:
- NADPH oxidases are key producers of ROS for intracellular and intercellular communication.
- ROS, particularly H2O2, act as multifaceted regulators of the intestinal barrier.
- Commensal microbiota and specific genetic conditions like VEOIBD contribute to the ROS balance.
Conclusions:
- NADPH oxidases are central to ROS-mediated regulation of the intestinal barrier.
- H2O2 emerges as a critical beneficial messenger in maintaining gut barrier integrity.
- Understanding ROS diversity and sources is crucial for comprehending gut health and disease.
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