Reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress in acute pancreatitis: Pathogenesis and new therapeutic interventions

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common acute gastrointestinal disorder affecting approximately 20% of patients with systemic inflammatory responses that may cause pancreatic and peripancreatic fat necrosis. This condition often progresses to multiple organ failure, significantly increasing morbidity and mortality. Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between the body’s reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, activates the inflammatory signaling pathways. Although the pathogenesis of AP is not fully understood, ROS are increasingly recognized as critical in the disease's progression and development. Modulating the oxidative stress pathway has shown efficacy in mitigating the progression of AP. Despite numerous basic studies examining this pathway, comprehensive reviews of recent research remain sparse. This systematic review offers an in-depth examination of the critical role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and progression of AP and evaluates the therapeutic potential of antioxidant interventions in its management.

Keywords: Acute pancreatitis; Reactive oxygen species; Oxidative stress; Treatment; Medicine

Core Tip: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common acute gastrointestinal disorder. Reactive oxygen species significantly impact the progression and development of AP, and modulation of the oxidative stress pathway can effectively mitigate this condition. This systematic review examines the pivotal role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and progression of AP and the therapeutic potential of anti-oxidative stress interventions in its management.