How can oxidative stress trigger inflammation during aging?

Oxidative stress contributes to aging through the molecular inflammatory theory, which links cellular damage to chronic inflammation. As organisms age, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) creates an environment of oxidative stress within cells.1

This stress triggers inflammation through the activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors—molecules responsible for controlling gene activity. Once activated by age-related oxidative stress, these factors increase the expression of proinflammatory genes. This process initiates an inflammatory cascade that is often exaggerated during the aging process.1

This chronic, low-grade inflammation is significant because it has been linked to numerous age-associated pathologies, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and various neurodegenerative conditions. Ultimately, this cycle of inflammation can further accelerate the biological aging process.1