THE IMPACT OF ANTIOXIDANTS ON OXIDATIVE STRESS AND AGING

Abstract

Oxidative stress, a condition arising from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense systems, is a pivotal factor contributing to aging and the onset of numerous age-related diseases. The damage induced by ROS affects key cellular components including DNA, lipids, and proteins, leading to impaired cellular function, mitochondrial dysfunction, and genomic instability over time.This study investigates the role of various dietary and endogenous antioxidants in mitigating oxidative stress and their potential to modulate the biological mechanisms underlying aging. A literature-based experimental model was employed, integrating comparative analyses of antioxidant impact on biomarkers such as telomere length, lipid peroxidation, gene expression, and mitochondrial integrity. The results demonstrate that antioxidant treatment significantly reduces ROS levels, enhances mitochondrial membrane potential, preserves telomere length, and upregulates protective genetic pathways such as Nrf2 signaling. Moreover, notable reductions in DNA oxidative damage and apoptosis rates were observed in antioxidant-administered groups compared to controls, supporting the hypothesis that antioxidants improve cellular resilience against age-related deterioration.These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of antioxidants in promoting healthy aging and reducing the burden of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and oncological diseases. By protecting cellular structures, modulating gene expression, and maintaining redox balance, antioxidants contribute meaningfully to the preservation of physiological function. Future clinical research is warranted to optimize antioxidant formulations and validate their long-term efficacy in aging populations.