Publications

Oxidative stress, a condition characterized by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the body’sability to detoxify them, has emerged as a pivotal factor in the pathophysiology of various diseases. Red blood cells (RBCs),essential components of the circulatory system, are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their high oxygencarryingcapacity and the abundance of vulnerable biomolecules. This review comprehensively explores the intricate mechanismsunderlying oxidative stress-induced damage to red blood cells and the subsequent implications for overall health and disease.We delve into the sources of ROS generation within RBCs, including metabolic processes and external factors, shedding light onthe delicate redox balance that governs cellular homeostasis. The impact of oxidative stress on red blood cells extends beyondthe confines of their primary physiological role, as these cells actively participate in immune responses, inflammation modulation,and nitric oxide metabolism. Consequently, understanding the implications of oxidative stress on RBCs provides valuable insightsinto the broader landscape of health and disease. In conclusion, this review underscores the critical role of oxidative stress ininfluencing red blood cell physiology and its far-reaching implications for human health. Elucidating the molecular intricaciesof this relationship not only enhances our understanding of fundamental biological processes but also paves the way for thedevelopment of targeted therapeutic interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of oxidative stress on red blood cells and, byextension, on overall health.Abbreviations: RBCs = red blood cells, RNS = reactive nitrogen species, ROS = reactive oxygen species.Keywords: disease susceptibility, health implications, hematological disorders, public health interventions, red blood cells (RBCs),stress, stress-related RBC dysfunction