Abstract
This chapter discusses the most important mechanisms of action of oxidants in the pathogenesis of chronic pulmonary oxidative diseases and the possible use of redox modulators in the prevention and treatment of oxidant/antioxidant intracellular imbalance. Recent acquisitions on cellular physiology reported the key role, in micromolecular doses, of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as signaling molecules although excessive ROS contribute to the development and progression of a large spectrum of diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Therefore, a correct understanding of the roles of redox regulation in the respiratory system during the impairment of oxidative balance and the subsequent development of chronic lung diseases appears to be important. Moreover, an interdependence between oxidant and inflammatory mediators has been shown in several experimental studies on chronic lung diseases, making more intriguing the comprehension of the pathophysiological phenomena and the therapeutic approach. This chapter discusses the role of various exogenous substances targeting oxidant/antioxidant balance in the treatment of COPD and IPF and their very limited beneficial effects due to the reduced bioavailability in the human body. Finally, the importance of novel routes of administration or a combination of redox modulators will be discussed as a promising avenue for the prevention and treatment of this common and highly disabling disease.