Inflammation and anti-inflammatory agents - Reactive oxygen species and toxicity

Abstract

Inflammation has attracted widespread attention because of its broad involvement in medical conditions. Examples are cancer, bowel diseases, Crohn's disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sarcoidosis, multiple sclerosis, as well as aging. Substantial evidence indicates involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress (OS). There is debate whether radicals are responsible for the condition, arise from the condition, or both. There are various types of anti-inflammatory agents, with this review being concentrated on the antioxidant category. Mechanisms are discussed. The various types include phenols, resveratrol, curcumin, flavonoids, N-acetylcysteine, and nanoparticles.