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Updated: Jun 17, 2025
Production and Detection of Reactive Oxygen Species ROS in Cancers
Published on: November 21, 2011
Role of Natural Antioxidants in Cancer
Faizah Jabr Alsulami1,2, Sadr Ul Shaheed3
1Department of Academic Affairs and Training Centre, King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. FAlSulami@kfafh.med.sa.
Abstract:
The oxidative stress defined as an event caused by an imbalance between production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to a damage in the structure of proteins, lipids, and DNA. Therefore, the production of ROS may alter the normal physiological process by provoking damage to multiple cellular organelles and processes. Oxidative stress has been linked to heart disease, cancer, respiratory diseases, immune deficiency, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and other inflammatory or ischemic conditions. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells and tissues caused by ROS, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. The β-carotene, catechins, flavonoids, polyphenols, lycopene, lutein, selenium, vitamins A, C, D, E, and zeaxanthin are all common types of antioxidants and found in plant-based foods, especially fruits and vegetables. Each antioxidant has its own role and can interact with others to process and remove free radicals efficiently. Several studies have been conducted to investigate whether the use of dietary antioxidant supplements is associated with decreased risks of developing cancer in humans, mixed results were reported. For instance, daily use of supplement such as vitamin c, vitamin E, β-Carotene, and minerals such as selenium and zinc have shown its effectiveness by reducing the risk of developing prostate cancer among men and skin cancer among women.
Insights
Oxidative stress, an imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS), damages cells and is linked to diseases. Dietary antioxidants from plant foods may help prevent or slow this damage, potentially reducing cancer risk.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses.
- ROS accumulation damages cellular structures like proteins, lipids, and DNA, disrupting physiological processes.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of antioxidants in mitigating oxidative stress and its associated health risks.
- To review the evidence on dietary antioxidant supplements and their impact on cancer prevention.
- To highlight common antioxidants and their sources in plant-based foods.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating oxidative stress and antioxidant functions.
- Analysis of research on the efficacy of dietary antioxidant supplements in human health.
- Identification of key antioxidants and their presence in fruits and vegetables.
Main Results:
- Dietary antioxidants, including beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and selenium, can prevent or slow cellular damage caused by ROS.
- Studies on antioxidant supplements for cancer prevention have yielded mixed results.
- Specific supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and zinc have shown potential in reducing prostate and skin cancer risks.
Conclusions:
- Antioxidants play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and protecting cellular integrity.
- While dietary antioxidants are vital, the effectiveness of high-dose supplements for disease prevention requires further investigation.
- Incorporating antioxidant-rich plant-based foods is a recommended strategy for overall health and potentially reducing disease risk.
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