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Updated: Nov 17, 2025
Production and Detection of Reactive Oxygen Species ROS in Cancers
Published on: November 21, 2011
Molecules and Mechanisms to Overcome Oxidative Stress Inducing Cardiovascular Disease in Cancer Patients
Francesco Sabbatino1,2, Valeria Conti1,3, Luigi Liguori4
1Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry 'Scuola Medica Salernitana', University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy.
Abstract:
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules involved in signal transduction pathways with both beneficial and detrimental effects on human cells. ROS are generated by many cellular processes including mitochondrial respiration, metabolism and enzymatic activities. In physiological conditions, ROS levels are well-balanced by antioxidative detoxification systems. In contrast, in pathological conditions such as cardiovascular, neurological and cancer diseases, ROS production exceeds the antioxidative detoxification capacity of cells, leading to cellular damages and death. In this review, we will first describe the biology and mechanisms of ROS mediated oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease. Second, we will review the role of oxidative stress mediated by oncological treatments in inducing cardiovascular disease. Lastly, we will discuss the strategies that potentially counteract the oxidative stress in order to fight the onset and progression of cardiovascular disease, including that induced by oncological treatments.
Insights
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause oxidative stress, damaging cells in diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. This review explores ROS in cardiovascular disease and strategies to counteract oxidative stress, including that from cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cellular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key signaling molecules with dual roles in human cells.
- Cellular ROS production, from metabolism and respiration, is normally balanced by antioxidant systems.
- Imbalance leads to oxidative stress, implicated in cardiovascular, neurological, and cancer diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of ROS-mediated oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease.
- To examine oxidative stress from cancer treatments and its impact on cardiovascular health.
- To discuss strategies for counteracting oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on ROS biology and oxidative stress mechanisms.
- Analysis of studies linking oncological treatments to cardiovascular complications.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on antioxidant strategies.
Main Results:
- ROS play a significant role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease.
- Cancer therapies can induce or exacerbate cardiovascular issues via oxidative stress.
- Antioxidant interventions show potential for mitigating ROS-induced damage.
Conclusions:
- Oxidative stress is a critical factor in cardiovascular disease development and progression.
- Targeting ROS-mediated pathways is a promising therapeutic avenue for cardiovascular protection, especially in cancer patients.
- Further research into antioxidant strategies is warranted.
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