Reactive oxygen species

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-009981",
  "term": "Reactive oxygen species",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "Highly reactive molecules containing oxygen, such as superoxide radicals (O₂⁻·), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and hydroxyl radicals (·OH). These species are naturally produced as byproducts of normal cellular metabolism, particularly in the mitochondria. While they play roles in cell signaling and immune defense, excessive levels can cause oxidative stress, leading to damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids.",
  "synonyms": [
    "reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI)"
  ],
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 1113. 'IUPAC glossary of terms used in immunotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 1239 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-11-06-03)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/reactive-oxygen-species/"
}