What Role Do Fatty Acids Play in Oxidative Stress?
Oxidative stress is a condition characterized by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to detoxify them. Fatty acids, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids, are susceptible to peroxidation by ROS, leading to cell membrane damage and inflammation. This process is critical in toxicology because oxidative stress is a common mechanism of toxicity for many environmental and chemical toxins.