What is Oxidative Stress?

• Reactive oxygen species are byproducts of normal metabolism
• Low levels play important roles in the regulation of metabolism
• Can react with and damage a wide range of biomolecules including DNA, proteins and lipids
• Oxidative stress is a condition wherein reactive oxygens are produced faster than they are neutralized by the body’s natural protective mechanisms
• Moderate amounts are important regulatory mediators in cell signaling processes
• This physiologic mechanism drives vital cellular functions