| Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance in the redox status of the body. In such a state, increase of free
radicals in the body can lead to tissue damage. One of the most important species of free radicals is reactive
oxygen species (ROS) produced by various metabolic pathways, including aerobic metabolism in the mitochondrial
respiratory chain. It plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of various types of cancers. ROS affects
different signaling pathways, including growth factors and mitogenic pathways, and controls many cellular
processes, including cell proliferation, and thus stimulates the uncontrolled growth of cells which encourages the
development of tumors and begins the process of carcinogenesis. Increased oxidative stress caused by reactive
species can reduce the body’s antioxidant defense against angiogenesis and metastasis in cancer cells. These
processes are main factors in the development of cancer. Bimolecular reactions cause free radicals in which
create such compounds as malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydroxyguanosine. These substances can be used as
indicators of cancer. In this review, free radicals as oxidizing agents, antioxidants as the immune system, and
the role of oxidative stress in cancer, particularly breast cancer, have been investigated in the hope that better
identification of the factors involved in the occurrence and spread of cancer will improve the identification of
treatment goals. |