Oxidative Stress Glossary
Key terms used in oxidative stress and antioxidant research. For educational reference only.
- Oxidative stress
- An imbalance between reactive oxygen species and the body's ability to neutralize them.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS)
- Molecules containing oxygen that can react with other molecules; at high levels they may contribute to cellular stress.
- Antioxidant
- A substance that can slow or prevent oxidation and help neutralize reactive species.
- Nrf2
- A transcription factor that regulates the expression of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes.
- Oxidation
- A chemical reaction involving loss of electrons; in biology, often linked to cell damage when uncontrolled.