Oxidative Free Radicals and Other Species: Selective Messengers with a Reactive Capacity for Unselective Tissue Damage

Abstract

Oxygen and nitrogen free radicals (RONS) form an exceptionally reactive molecular assembly within eukaryote cells. This perspective article gives a combined overview of different facets of research covering molecular reactivity, resultant tissue damage and final tissue outcomes as they relate to major disease. There is an emphasis on cardiovascular disease, as the damage processes are best liked to the pathology. The overriding importance of inflammation in driving damage across all tissues is highlighted. Brief coverage is also provided of measurement approaches, respectively for antioxidant status, using potentiometry, and voltammetry for selected target species. Whilst damage due to RONS is a common focus, the fundamental importance of RONS to biological signalling is also covered here as an indispensable basis for life. The article thus provides a global overview of this topic for anyone wishing to understand the current status across multiple fronts.