Publications

Inflammation is a complex and essential biological response to infection, injury, or harmful stimuli, aimed at restoring tissue homeostasis. However, when this process becomes prolonged or dysregulated, it contributes significantly to the development and progression of numerous chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions. One of the major underlying mechanisms linking inflammation to disease is oxidative stress, which arises from an imbalance between the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defense capacity. Elevated ROS not only damage cellular components such as lipids, proteins, and DNA but also activate key inflammatory signaling pathways that perpetuate tissue injury. Antioxidants, derived from both natural and synthetic sources, have been recognized as crucial modulators of these processes. Natural antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids play vital roles in neutralizing ROS, maintaining redox balance, and downregulating inflammatory cascades. Synthetic antioxidants, on the other hand, are being developed to selectively target specific oxidative and inflammatory mediators. This review highlights the mechanisms by which antioxidants regulate immune responses and inflammation, examines emerging therapeutic applications, and discusses ongoing challenges and future perspectives. Understanding these mechanisms offers promising strategies for the prevention and management of chronic inflammatory diseases.