Exploring the Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Redox Cancer Therapy: Unveiling New Avenues for Treatment

Authors

Fernando Cisneros, The University of Texas and UT Health Rio Grande Valley, School of MedicineFollow
Alex Zuo, The University of Texas and UT Health Rio Grande Valley, Department of Medical Education and Neuroscience, School of MedicineFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

Summer 2024

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play significant roles in various pathological diseases due to their ability to induce oxidative stress and damage cellular components. It is known that some amount of ROS is essential in normal cell function as signaling molecules involved in various physiological processes. However, there is a noted upregulation of ROS in neoplastic cells. Despite this, cancer cells have adaptations such as efflux pumps and transcription factors that allow for their viability in oxidative conditions. Through several mechanisms, ROS can initiate programmed cell death (PCD), potentially serving as a cancer therapy. Strategies aimed at manipulating ROS levels to selectively induce cytotoxicity in cancer cells while sparing normal cells through coadministration with chemotherapies are being explored as potential treatments in cancer therapy. Additionally, targeting antioxidant defense mechanisms in cancer cells to disrupt redox homeostasis and sensitize these cells to ROS-mediated cell death is an area of active investigation.

Recommended Citation

Cisneros, Fernando and Zuo, Alex, "Exploring the Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Redox Cancer Therapy: Unveiling New Avenues for Treatment" (2024). School of Medicine Publications and Presentations. 1498.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/som_pub/1498

Academic Level

medical student

Mentor/PI Department

Medical Education