Review Paper:
Oxidative Stress
in Neurodegenerative Illness: A Comprehensive Overview
Pandey Preeti and Gupta Priyanka
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(6); 175-181;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/206rjbt1750181; (2025)
Abstract
Age is the primary risk factor for various human diseases including neurological
conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and amyotrophic lateral disease, which
affect a growing population of senior adults. These disease illnesses are marked
by the progressive degeneration of neuronal cells, impaired motor or cognitive skills
and the buildup of improperly aggregated molecules. Mitochondrial (MC) dysfunction
is a primary characteristic of advancing age, especially in energy-demanding organs
such as the heart, muscle tissue, brain and liver. Neurons depend predominantly
on MC, which generates the energy necessary for several cellular functions such
as the plasticity of synapses and neurotransmitter production.
The brain is especially susceptible to oxidative stress (OS) and injury due to its
elevated use of oxygen, inadequate defences against antioxidants and high levels
of polyunsaturated lipids, which are highly prone to oxidation. Safeguarding systems,
particularly those that produce antioxidants, is crucial for preserving neuronal
functionality and longevity. The research examines the influence of MC OS on aging,
particularly neurological diseases. Comprehending the biological processes associated
with MC and OS in aging and neurodegeneration could facilitate the identification
of novel techniques for enhancing health and prolonging longevity.
