Oxidative Stress and Carcinogenesis

Cancer is a complex disease where uncontrolled proliferation of cells takes place. In addition to the external environment, cell’s internal environment is a critical factor in carcinogenesis. ROS mediated oxidative stress sets the tone for the cancer development. Role of free radicals induced oxidative stress by modulating the molecular pathways of cell cycle regulation contribute to the initiation, progression and metastasis of various cancers. ROS mediated changes in the p53 dependent pathway of apoptosis is one of the most common and widely studied pathway. Here we have discussed the contribution of oxidative stress in the molecular pathways which are central to various stages of cancer development and progression.