Asbestos-induced oxidative stress in lung pathogenesis

Abstract

Asbestos exposure causes multiple nonmalignant and malignant diseases through complex mechanisms that are not fully understood. Oxidant generation is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of asbestos-related diseases by evidence from various in vitro and in vivo studies. We will first describe how asbestos fibers generate oxidants, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), through direct and indirect interactions with target cells. Next, we will describe how asbestos-induced oxidants influence multiple downstream biological processes involved in DNA damage, apoptosis, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, and inflammation. Elucidating the redox-regulated pathways involved in asbestos-related disease causation is complex but will likely lead us to future biomarkers and therapeutic targets.