Work

Oxidative signaling thresholds shape vulnerability in the central and peripheral nervous systems

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Neurodegeneration is frequently associated with oxidative stress, yet the mechanisms that convert reactive oxygen species (ROS) into irreversible degenerative signals remain incompletely understood. Neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems often differ in their responses to injury, but these differences cannot be reduced to a simple contrast between weak and strong antioxidant capacity. This Essay proposes that neuronal vulnerability is shaped by multilayered signaling thresholds comprising ROS production, antioxidant and thiol buffering, redox-sensitive signal detection, molecular gating, and commitment to degeneration, survival, or repair. This framework may help explain selective neuronal vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases and identify intervention points downstream of global ROS suppression.

Source: PLoS Biology

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3004032

Authors: Shuji Wakatsuki, Toshiyuki Araki

Institutions: National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, National Institute of Neuroscience

Language: English

Topic: Redox biology and oxidative stress

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $5,500