Oxidative stress: therapeutic approaches for cervical cancer treatment

Clinics (Sao Paulo). 2018 Dec 10;73(suppl 1):e548s. doi: 10.6061/clinics/2018/e548s.

Abstract

Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between the generation and elimination of oxidant species. This condition may result in DNA, RNA and protein damage, leading to the accumulation of genetic alterations that can favor malignant transformation. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus types is associated with inflammatory responses and reactive oxygen species production. In this context, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and high-risk human papillomavirus can act in a synergistic manner. To counteract the harmful effects of oxidant species, protective molecules, known as antioxidant defenses, are produced by cells to maintain redox homeostasis. In recent years, the use of natural antioxidants as therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment has attracted the attention of the scientific community. This review discusses specific molecules and mechanisms that can act against or together with oxidative stress, presenting alternatives for cervical cancer prevention and treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Apoptosis / drug effects
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects*
  • Papillomavirus Infections / drug therapy
  • Papillomavirus Infections / metabolism
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / virology

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Reactive Oxygen Species