Potential of cyclodipeptides in combating oxidative stress in chronic diseases

Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between free radicals-such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS)-and the body's antioxidant defenses. This imbalance contributes to the progression of diseases affecting the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Cyclodipeptides (CDPs) have exhibited significant antioxidant, cytoprotective, and neuroprotective properties, making them promising candidates for mitigating oxidative damage. Their ability to modulate oxidative stress pathways highlights their potential as therapeutic agents in oxidative damage-related diseases. This review discusses the role of free radicals in oxidative stress before exploring the importance of different types of CDPs in counteracting oxidative damage in various diseases.