Recent research highlights the critical role of oxidative stress (OS) in aging, emphasizing that an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses initiates cellular damage. This review outlines key biomarkers of OS, including protein oxidation products and DNA lesions, which indicate the extent of oxidative damage and its contribution to cellular senescence and dysfunction.

Understanding these biomarkers is crucial for the longevity and healthspan fields, as they provide insights into the aging process and potential therapeutic targets. For instance, the study notes that the activity of enzymatic antioxidants like glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase declines with age, revealing a compromised ability to manage ROS. Additionally, non-enzymatic antioxidants also diminish, further exacerbating oxidative damage.

The findings underscore the importance of monitoring OS biomarkers for early detection of age-related diseases and developing interventions aimed at enhancing antioxidant defenses, ultimately promoting healthier aging.

Source: academic.oup.com