Oxidative stress and cardiovascular disease: antioxidants and unresolved issues.
Experimental and clinical studies suggest that oxidative stress contributes to the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. However, clinical trials with classic vitamin antioxidants failed to demonstrate any benefit in cardiovascular outcomes. Recent advances in our understanding of mechanisms involved in free radical generation reinstate that a more comprehensive approach targeting the prevention of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation early in the disease process may prove beneficial. Experimental studies and reviews in oxidative stress were selected to provide a better understanding of the roles of the reactive species in the initiation and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Clinical studies that evaluated the efficacy of several classes of antioxidants in CVD were included in the second part of this review to discuss future therapeutic guidelines based on currently available evidence. In conclusion, before a potential role for antioxidants in the treatment of CVD is eliminated, more carefully designed studies with classic as well as new antioxidants in well-defined patient populations are warranted to provide a definitive answer.
Sachidanandam
Kamakshi
K
Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy.
Fagan
Susan C
SC
Ergul
Adviye
A
D000818:Animals; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D018384:Oxidative Stress / Q000502:physiology*; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species / Q000378:metabolism
D000975:Antioxidants; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species