Korean J Pediatr.  2013 Mar;56(3):107-111. 10.3345/kjp.2013.56.3.107.

Oxidative stress and the antioxidant enzyme system in the developing brain

• Shim SY
• Kim HS

• KMID: 2284280
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3345/kjp.2013.56.3.107

Abstract

Preterm infants are vulnerable to the oxidative stress due to the production of large amounts of free radicals, antioxidant system insufficiency, and immature oligodendroglial cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a pivotal role in the development of periventricular leukomalacia. The three most common ROS are superoxide (O2*-), hydroxyl radical (OH*), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Under normal physiological conditions, a balance is maintained between the production of ROS and the capacity of the antioxidant enzyme system. However, if this balance breaks down, ROS can exert toxic effects. Superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase are considered the classical antioxidant enzymes. A recently discovered antioxidant enzyme family, peroxiredoxin (Prdx), is also an important scavenger of free radicals. Prdx1 expression is induced at birth, whereas Prdx2 is constitutively expressed, and Prdx6 expression is consistent with the classical antioxidant enzymes. Several antioxidant substances have been studied as potential therapeutic agents; however, further preclinical and clinical studies are required before allowing clinical application.

Keyword

Reactive oxygen species; Antioxidants; Brain injuries; Premature infant

MeSH Terms

Antioxidants
Brain
Brain Injuries
Catalase
Free Radicals
Glutathione Peroxidase
Humans
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydroxyl Radical
Infant, Newborn
Infant, Premature
Leukomalacia, Periventricular
Oxidative Stress
Parturition
Peroxiredoxins
Reactive Oxygen Species
Superoxide Dismutase
Superoxides
Antioxidants
Catalase
Free Radicals
Glutathione Peroxidase
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydroxyl Radical
Peroxiredoxins
Reactive Oxygen Species
Superoxide Dismutase
Superoxides