Exploring the role of genetic variants in oxidative stress susceptibility and disease risk

Oxidative stress, resulting from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms, is implicated in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to oxidative stress and its associated disorders. This review explores the interplay between oxidative stress and genetics, highlighting the influence of genetic polymorphisms in key antioxidant enzymes and pathways such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and the NRF2-KEAP1 signaling axis—on oxidative stress susceptibility. Additionally, the impact of oxidative stress-related genetic variants on the development and progression of various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and metabolic syndromes, is discussed. Understanding the complex relationship between oxidative stress and genetics is essential for elucidating disease mechanisms, identifying potential biomarkers, and developing personalized therapeutic interventions targeting oxidative stress-related pathways.