RATIONALIZING ANTIOXIDANT THERAPY: CURRENT EVIDENCE, CLINICAL LIMITATIONS AND EMERGING PROSPECTS

ABSTRACT: 
Antioxidants play a vital therapeutic role by counteracting oxidative stress, a major factor in 
the development and progression of various chronic and degenerative disorders. The 
production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during drug metabolism can disrupt redox 
homeostasis, causing lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and 
eventually cell death. Recent studies highlight the antioxidant capacity to neutralize reactive 
oxygen and nitrogen species, restore redox balance, and regulate key signalling pathways 
involved in inflammation, apoptosis, and immune function. Both endogenous and exogenous 
antioxidants are essential components of the body's defense system against oxidative damage. 
Natural antioxidants, especially those obtained from plant-based sources, have demonstrated 
notable potential in enhancing cellular defense mechanisms and promoting overall health. 
Nevertheless, challenges such as limited bioavailability, dose optimization, and the risk of pro
oxidant effects at higher concentrations remain unresolved. This review discusses the 
molecular mechanisms by which antioxidants offer protection against diseases affecting the 
neurological, gastrointestinal, immune, and integumentary systems. Future directions include 
the development of targeted antioxidant therapies, nano-based delivery systems, personalized 
approaches, and combination therapies. Advancing these strategies will be crucial for fully 
realizing the therapeutic benefits of antioxidants in disease prevention and treatment, thereby 
improving clinical outcomes and patient safety.