Pro-oxidant

A Pro-oxidant is a substance or molecule that promotes or enhances oxidative stress in cells and tissues. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), also known as free radicals, and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. Pro-oxidants contribute to this imbalance, leading to cellular damage, inflammation, and potentially, disease. They can function through various mechanisms, including generating free radicals directly, depleting antioxidant defenses, or disrupting cellular redox balance.

Pro-oxidant meaning with examples

• Iron, a Pro-oxidant, is essential for oxygen transport, but excess iron can catalyze the formation of hydroxyl radicals, damaging lipids, proteins, and DNA. Dietary supplements with excessive iron should be carefully considered as they pose a risk.
• Environmental pollutants like ozone and nitrogen oxides are significant pro-oxidants. Exposure to these pollutants increases ROS production in the lungs, contributing to respiratory problems, chronic bronchitis, and potentially, accelerating the development of emphysema.
• Certain chemotherapy drugs, while effective in killing cancer cells, often exhibit Pro-oxidant properties. They induce oxidative stress to destroy cancer cells, however, simultaneously damaging the healthy tissues nearby.
• Cigarette smoke contains numerous pro-oxidants, including free radicals and other oxidizing agents. The resulting oxidative stress is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and premature aging, which affects most smokers.