The double-edged roles of ROS in cancer prevention and therapy

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as cell signaling molecules generated in oxidative metabolism and are associated with a number of human diseases. The reprogramming of redox metabolism induces abnormal accumulation of ROS in cancer cells. It has been widely accepted that ROS play opposite roles in tumor growth, metastasis and apoptosis according to their different distributions, concentrations and durations in specific subcellular structures. These double-edged roles in cancer progression include the ROS-dependent malignant transformation and the oxidative stress-induced cell death. In this review, we summarize the notable literatures on ROS generation and scavenging, and discuss the related signal transduction networks and corresponding anticancer therapies. There is no doubt that an improved understanding of the sophisticated mechanism of redox biology is imperative to conquer cancer.

Automated summary

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) act as cell signaling molecules generated in oxidative metabolism and are associated with various human diseases. Abnormal accumulation of ROS in cancer cells leads to tumor progression and metastasis. Understanding the dual roles of ROS in tumor growth, metastasis, and apoptosis, as well as related signal transduction networks and anticancer therapies is crucial in conquering cancer.