Reactive oxygen species in heart failure

Abstract

A constant supply of oxygen is indispensable for cardiac viability and function. However, oxygen is also central to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Indeed, it is estimated that up to 5% of the oxygen normally consumed by tissues can be transformed into ROS. Recent studies point to crucial roles of increased ROS in the pathophysiology of heart failure.1 © 2008 Springer-Verlag London.