What is oxidative stress and how does it relate to toxicology?
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the cell's antioxidant defenses. Many toxicants induce oxidative stress by generating ROS, which can damage proteins, lipids, and DNA. This damage can lead to cell death and diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding oxidative stress is vital for developing strategies to mitigate the effects of toxicants.
