Oxidative Stress

Term: Oxidative StressDefinition: A state characterized by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the body's ability to detoxify them or repair the resulting damage.Phonetic Pronunciation: (ok-SID-uh-tiv STRESS)Origin: The term 'oxidative' derives from 'oxidation,' which comes from the Latin 'oxidare,' meaning 'to oxidize.' 'Stress' originates from the Latin 'stringere,' meaning 'to draw tight.' Combined, these terms describe a biological condition where the body's oxidative processes become harmful due to an imbalance.Significance in Asbestos Context: Oxidative stress is significant in asbestos-related diseases because asbestos fibers can induce the production of reactive oxygen species, leading to cellular damage and inflammation, which are key mechanisms in the development of diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis.Example Sentence: Exposure to asbestos can lead to oxidative stress in the lungs, contributing to the development of serious respiratory diseases.Related Terms: Reactive Oxygen Species, Inflammation, Cellular Damage, Mesothelioma, AsbestosisNotes: - Oxidative stress is not unique to asbestos exposure but is a common pathway in many diseases. - Antioxidants can help mitigate the effects of oxidative stress. - Chronic oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage and mutations.