Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Diseases: The Role of Mitochondria

Abstract

The redox status is determined by the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their removal by the antioxidant defense system. Mitochondria, the center of oxidative metabolism and the principal site of ROS production, are crucial in health and also in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in a vicious cycle contributing to cellular damage and consequent cell death, has been proven to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have shown that mitochondrial transfer in cells plays a crucial role in regulating cardiovascular system development and maintaining normal tissue homeostasis. We review and evaluate in this chapter the evidence for mitochondrial dysfunction as a consequence of stress exposure and a contributing factor to cardiovascular diseases.