Role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of arterial hypertension and heart failure

Abstract

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between endogenous prooxidant and antioxidant systems leading to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which potentially disrupt redox signalling and/or inflict damage to macromolecules. Numerous studies over the last two decades have suggested a central role for oxidative stress in the development of several cardiovascular diseases. This chapter aims to summarize the current experimental and clinical evidence about the major oxidant and antioxidant changes occurring in hypertension and heart failure, and to provide a critical overview of the relevance of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of these prevalent diseases. Finally, the strategies known to prevent or ameliorate oxidative damage, both in animal models and in patients, will be discussed.