Reproductive Benefit of Oxidative Damage: An Oxidative Stress 'Malevolence'?
2011
Reproductive Benefit of Oxidative Damage
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Borut Poljsak, Milisav I. Ostan, Lampe T.
Primary Institution: University of Ljubljana
Hypothesis
Can oxidative stress be beneficial for reproduction despite its harmful effects on health and longevity?
Conclusion
Oxidative damage may not be an evolutionary mistake but could actually be beneficial for reproduction, outweighing its negative impacts on health.
Supporting Evidence
- Oxidative stress is linked to chronic diseases but may also play a role in reproduction.
- High levels of reactive oxygen species are produced during normal metabolism.
- Some species show resistance to oxidative damage, suggesting evolutionary adaptations.
Takeaway
Sometimes, the things that can hurt us, like oxidative stress, might actually help us have babies. It's like a trade-off where we pay a price for something good.
Limitations
The study discusses various theories and perspectives but does not provide empirical data to support its claims.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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