reactive oxygen species
phrasePronunciation: /riˈæktɪv ˈɒksɪdʒən ˈspiːʃiːz/
Also written as: ROS — reactive oxygen species
Highly reactive molecules containing oxygen that can damage cellular components but also serve as signaling molecules in plants.
Full Definition
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, including superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals. Under normal conditions, ROS are produced at low levels during cellular metabolism and serve important signaling functions. During abiotic stress, ROS production increases dramatically and can cause oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA. Plants have evolved sophisticated antioxidant systems to scavenge excess ROS and maintain cellular homeostasis.
Plain English
Harmful oxygen-containing molecules that build up in plant cells during stress and can damage important cell parts, though plants have defense systems to neutralize them.
In Editorial Context
A central concept in abiotic stress research requiring careful distinction between beneficial signaling roles and harmful oxidative effects, with standardized methods for detection and quantification essential for publication.
Etymology & History
Coined as understanding of oxidative stress in biological systems developed
Initially viewed only as harmful, now recognized as important signaling molecules
Usage
"The review manuscript comprehensively covered ROS metabolism under salt stress but lacked discussion of species-specific differences in antioxidant enzyme activities."
Usage note: Specify which ROS species when possible; distinguish between signaling and damage roles
Context: oxidative stress research, plant biochemistry, stress physiology, antioxidant studies
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Sometimes used interchangeably with 'oxidative stress' but ROS are the molecules while oxidative stress is the condition they create