Chapter 17 Role of NF-E2 related factors in oxidative stress

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the role of NF-E2 related factors in oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause oxidative stress and have a profound impact on the survival and evolution of all living organisms. ROS include both free radicals, such as the superoxide anion and the hydroxyl radical, and oxidants, such as hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ). ROS are produced endogenously by a variety of oxidases, as well as being byproducts of cellular respiration. Physiological responses, such as the activation of neutrophils during inflammation and infection, protective cytotoxic processes, oxidative phosphorylation, and auto-oxidation reactions catalyzed by transition metal ions, produce ROS as byproducts. Cytochrome P450 and Cytochrome P450 reductase, activated by environmental exposure, generate ROS during oxidative metabolism of specific compounds. Long wavelength UV light (UVA and UVB), as well as photochemical oxidant pollutants, such as ozone and nitrogen oxides, generate singlet oxygen species. Radiolysis of water, caused by exposure to environmental radiation, leads to the formation of hydroxyl radicals, which are the most reactive species known in vivo . Therefore, it is clear that all cells must continuously strive to keep the levels of ROS in check.