Definition
Oxidative Stress is the medical equivalent of the Sword of Damocles. On the one hand, its free radicals are essential for normal metabolism. On the other hand, it has been implicated in such catastrophic and degenerative diseases as: stroke, myocardial infarction, chronic heart failure, diabetes, circulatory shock, chronic inflammatory diseases, cancer, asthma, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and neurodegenerative disorders. Oxidative stress is generally defined as an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. Evidence suggests that that oxidative stress can lead to cell and tissue injury. All diseases involve free radicals. A critical high wire balancing act between oxidants and antioxidants must be maintained to insure health in the aging process.
Research
Enormous strides have been made lately, in the research and forensic analysis of oxidative stress. Of particular importance, is the discovery of peroxynitrite--the most rapid non-enzymatic reactions in all of biology. Its (NO) free radical generated Nitric oxide properties, has a critical involvement in a host of pathologies, such as: vasodilation, neuro signaling, and inflammation. (NO) is present and acts as a signaling device in every critical cellular function and is a crucial pathogenic mechanism in overwhelming oxidative injury such as cellular necrosis. However encouraging these recent discoveries are, there is still much to be learned about the effects of peroxynitrite and its oxidant properties as to whether cells activate the repair processes or die.
There is a general consensus that lowering oxidative stress can have some positive health benefits. Overproducing free radicals can radically overwhelm the immune system initiating oxidative injury and disease....some of which have already been mentioned and listed. The discovery of micronutrients that play a role in modulation of redox cell signaling provides an important foundation and link between diet and health.
Conclusion
Oxidative stress is a key factor in health and disease. Understanding its bio-mechanics will go a long way in eradicating some of modern society's most devastating pathologies.
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