Cell Protection by Oxidative Stress Mitigation Using Substances with Bioactive Properties

Abstract

Stress caused by challenging environmental conditions is often associated with the rapid production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that dramatically alter cellular redox homeostasis. ROS generation is tightly connected with its utilization, as impaired equilibrium of these processes results in oxidative stress having profound consequences for cell physiology. The balanced action of both antioxidant enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants counterbalances the harmful effects of ROS. Despite the functional antioxidant system of the cell, excessive ROS leads to disruption of vital cellular processes which is associated with the development of various lifestyle diseases, mainly cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Enhanced consumption of foodstuffs with high and balanced antioxidant bioactive compounds is linked with the positive effects of beneficial antioxidants impacting cellular protection resulting in health promotion. In this chapter, we present an outline of how bioactive compounds determine their health-promoting properties.