Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to potential cellular and tissue damage. Free radicals, or reactive oxygen species (ROS), are highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons. They are natural byproducts of cellular metabolism, particularly during the process of energy production in the mitochondria. While the body uses antioxidants to neutralize these free radicals and maintain cellular health, an excess of ROS or a deficiency in antioxidants can disrupt this balance, resulting in oxidative stress.

This condition is implicated in the aging process and various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, smoking, and poor diet can exacerbate oxidative stress by increasing free radical production or depleting antioxidant levels. In a biological context, oxidative stress can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids, impairing cellular function and triggering inflammatory responses. Understanding oxidative stress is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing antioxidant defenses and mitigating its harmful effects.