The Innate Immune System and Fever under Redox Control: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Cellular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Immunology

Background:

• Redox potential is essential for physiological processes, regulated by antioxidants and proteins.
• Despite evidence, some debate the regulatory role of free radicals, attributing only harmful functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the link between redox processes and intracellular/extracellular signaling pathways.
• To discuss the therapeutic potential of artificial oxidative stress and risks of antioxidant supplements.
• To highlight the association of innate immunity and fever with redox processes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing studies.
• Analysis of signaling pathways and their connection to redox regulation.
• Examination of the role of redox in innate immunity and fever responses.

Main Results:

• Countless signaling pathways are directly or indirectly linked to regulated redox processes.
• Artificial oxidative stress shows therapeutic potential, while popular antioxidant supplements may have negative effects.
• Major components of innate immunity and fever are intrinsically linked to redox processes.

Conclusions:

• Excessive free radical production can be secondary to perturbed cellular signaling.
• Pharmacological research must integrate the critical role of redox mechanisms in innate immunity and fever.