Molecules, Vol. 24, Pages 1583: Oxidative Stress: A Key Modulator in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Molecules, Vol. 24, Pages 1583: Oxidative Stress: A Key Modulator in Neurodegenerative Diseases Molecules doi: 10.3390/molecules24081583 Authors: Anju Singh Ritushree Kukreti Luciano Saso Shrikant Kukreti Oxidative stress is proposed as a regulatory element in ageing and various neurological disorders. The excess of oxidants causes a reduction of antioxidants, which in turn produce an oxidation–reduction imbalance in organisms. Paucity of the antioxidant system generates oxidative-stress, characterized by elevated levels of reactive species (oxygen, hydroxyl free radical, and so on). Mitochondria play a key role in ATP supply to cells via oxidative phosphorylation, as well as synthesis of essential biological molecules. Various redox reactions catalyzed by enzymes take place in the oxidative phosphorylation process. An inefficient oxidative phosphorylation may generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial redox metabolism, phospholipid metabolism, and proteolytic pathways are found to be the major and potential source of free radicals. A lower concentration of ROS is essential for normal cellular signaling, whereas the higher concentration and long-time exposure of ROS cause damage to cellular macromolecules such as DNA, lipids and proteins, ultimately resulting in necrosis and apoptotic cell death. Normal and proper functioning of the central nervous system (CNS) is entirely dependent on the chemical i...
Source: Molecules - Category: Chemistry Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research