Affiliation:
1. Department of Medical Biochemistry, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University-
Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
Abstract
Oxidative stress describes the state of a cell where there is an imbalance
between free radical formation and antioxidants due to either excess formation of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) or inadequate antioxidant defence. It is very well known
that oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of various diseases
through impaired intracellular redox homeostasis. To evaluate and imply the excess
production of ROS, various biomarkers are used and suggested, yet it is also known
that there is a lack of standardization and validation for these methods. It is almost very
difficult to measure ROS directly because of their short half-life, yet it is still possible
with a suitable technique. The most frequently used biomarkers are represented by
oxidized macromolecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which are
modified via ROS, and also the amounts or activities of antioxidant molecules and
enzymes, respectively. There are also various genetic biomarkers measuring the
susceptibility of modification due to oxidative stress. However, the preferred biomarker
would be dependent on the aim of the study and the clinical relevance.
Publisher
BENTHAM SCIENCE PUBLISHERS