The use of ozone as redox modulator in the treatment of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex and progressive disease associated with an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, and acute-phase proteins. This generalized oxidative/inflammatory status is accompanied by a downregulation of the cellular antioxidant transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Therapeutic agents that activate Nrf2 may have a pivotal role in the rebalance of the altered redox system. This chapter explores how the ozone can act as an endogenous redox modulator in the integrated treatment of COPD.