Oxidative Stress Evaluation
The evaluation of oxidative stress through bioassays is essential to understand its effects and ensure the safety of the consumer and the environment.
Oxidative stress is linked to the development of various pathologies, including inflammation, aging, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic disorders.
How is oxidative stress produced?
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive molecules derived from oxygen metabolism, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH•), superoxide anion (O₂•−), and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Their generation is associated with normal biological processes and plays a role in cell signaling. However, excessive ROS production has harmful effects on homeostasis, cellular structures, and functions, leading to oxidative stress.
Impact of oxidative stress on the safety of materials: ROS and antioxidant assessment
In the field of materials, the release of oxidative compounds is a critical aspect to consider, especially in applications such as food contact packaging, cosmetics, and functional coatings. Additionally, emerging contaminants such as micro- and nanoplastics, plastic additives, pesticides, and industrial residues can induce ROS production in cells and organisms. The interaction of these compounds with biological systems may trigger inflammatory or genotoxic processes, making their evaluation through bioassays essential to understanding their effects and ensuring consumer and environmental safety.
Evaluation Through Bioassays: ROS and Antioxidant Capacity
At AIMPLAS, we use fluorescence-based assays to detect ROS, allowing us to quantify free radical production in cells exposed to material extracts or migrated compounds. Additionally, these assays can be combined with cytotoxicity and genotoxicity studies for a more comprehensive risk assessment.
On the other hand, the presence of functional antioxidants can counteract oxidative stress, protecting biological systems. The antioxidant capacity of these compounds is evaluated using methods that measure the neutralization of free radicals.
Integration into Material Safety Assessment
The evaluation of ROS and antioxidants should not be considered in isolation but in combination with other biosafety assays. At AIMPLAS, we apply a comprehensive approach that integrates chemical analysis and in vitro bioassays to accurately characterize the impact of materials on health and the environment.
If you would like more information about these assays and their application in the development of safer and more sustainable materials, please do not hesitate to contact us.
