Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants and the Regulation of Redox Balance in Health: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
<p>Redox balance is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and is regulated by antioxidant systems that neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS). An imbalance between ROS production and antioxidant capacity leads to oxidative stress, a condition associated with numerous chronic and degenerat...
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| Autores principales: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Formato: | Capítulo de libro |
| Lenguaje: | inglés |
| Publicado: |
IntechOpen
2026
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| Materias: | |
| Acceso en línea: | https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/1237216 |
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| Sumario: | <p>Redox balance is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and is regulated by antioxidant systems that neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS). An imbalance between ROS production and antioxidant capacity leads to oxidative stress, a condition associated with numerous chronic and degenerative diseases, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic disorders, and cancer. In this context, non-enzymatic antioxidants have emerged as promising tools for modulating oxidative stress. These bioactive compounds, of endogenous or exogenous origin, act either directly as free radical scavengers or indirectly by modulating redox-sensitive cellular signaling pathways, such as the Nrf2-Keap1 axis. Among the main non-enzymatic antioxidants are glutathione, uric acid, bilirubin, melatonin, vitamins C and E, carotenoids, polyphenols, and trace elements such as selenium and zinc. The bioavailability and efficacy of these compounds depend on their source, metabolism, route of administration, and delivery strategies, with nanotechnology representing an innovative approach to optimizing cellular targeting. Both experimental and clinical evidence support the therapeutic potential of these antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases, especially when used in combination with conventional therapies or in targeted formulations. Despite significant advances, challenges remain regarding the standardization of therapeutic protocols, the identification of reliable redox biomarkers, and the development of personalized strategies. This chapter discusses the biological principles of oxidative stress, the mechanisms of action of non-enzymatic antioxidants, and their therapeutic applications, with an emphasis on disease prevention and health promotion, highlighting recent advances and future perspectives for personalized and preventive medicine.</p> |
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| ISBN: | 978-1-80631-082-1 |
| DOI: | 10.5772/intechopen.1013436 |