Modulating the Antioxidant Response for Better Oxidative Stress-Inducing Therapies: How to Take Advantage of Two Sides of the Same Coin?

The review discussed the dual role of oxidative stress-inducing therapies, which involved the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) to treat diseases like neurodegenerative disorders, heart disease, and cancer. It emphasized the importance of the body's antioxidant defense system in maintaining redox balance, crucial for cell functions such as signal transduction and cell proliferation. By understanding the mechanisms of endogenous antioxidant systems, the therapeutic efficacy of these therapies could be enhanced, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes. The review highlighted recent findings on cellular antioxidant responses and their implications in diseases like ulcers, skin pathologies, oncology, and viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. It explored the therapeutic potential of modulating oxidative stress, particularly in treating diseases like cancer and infections, by either increasing or decreasing RONS levels. The document emphasized the importance of understanding the balance between oxidant production and antioxidant defenses, as well as the role of various oxidants in cellular signaling and damage. It suggested that targeting enzymes and pathways involved in oxidative stress could offer promising therapeutic strategies for managing oxidative stress-related diseases.