Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a family of small reactive molecules containing oxygen. ROS are produced in all aerobic cells and play critical roles in regulating several cell functions and biological processes.
Excessive or sustained ROS production leads to oxidative stress, that has been related to several pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and atherosclerosis (ATS).
ATS is a multifactorial disease in which a complex interaction between cells and inflammatory mediators drives remodeling of the arterial toward plaque formation, growth and complications. Macrophages, which are key players in atherosclerotic process, are the main source of ROS. Moreover, ROS are able to influence T cell mediated immune response. Considering the relevant role of oxidative stress in the progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the aim of the study is, therefore, to evaluate effects of ROS and antioxidant enzymes on T lymphocytes and monocyte/macrophages collected from patients affected by critical carotid artery stenosis (CAS) both symptomatic and asymptomatic.
