Redox signaling and homeostasis

Homeostasis constitutes a dynamic equilibrium process through which an organism sustains internal stability and adjusts to its external environment. A crucial aspect of this process involves a cascade of redox reactions, generating energy (such as adenosine triphosphate, ATP) and synthesizing essential cellular components (such as nucleic acids) from nutrients to support diverse biological functions. Intracellular redox imbalance, resulting from disruptions in the equilibrium between oxidants and antioxidants, is a hallmark event in numerous pathophysiological processes. This review encapsulates the concept of cellular redox homeostasis, examines the factors and processes contributing to regulatory roles in redox homeostasis, and elucidates how cellular functions can be modulated by targeting these molecular mechanisms. Future advancements will necessitate the development of precise assessment methods for redox homeostasis, the judicious selection of oxidative modulators based on disease characteristics, the rationalization of delivery systems, and the creation of precise interventions. These interventions must consider various factors to achieve optimal modulation either positively or negatively and meet therapeutic goals across different diseases.