Effects of oxygen intermediates on cellular functions

This brief illustration of the effects of O2 metabolites and of hyperoxia on some of the main functions of the cells, DNA and protein synthesis, indicates that major changes can occur in cells exposed to oxidative stresses such as those occurring in an inflammatory reaction. The relative sensitivity of the various cell populations may favor the emergence of some cells and the disappearance of others. Depending on the sensitivity of different enzymes to oxidative injury, the response of cells in terms of both mediator production and of response to the action of the mediators themselves may be affected.