[The role of proteins in propagation of damage induced by reactive oxygen species in vivo].

Although the damaging effects of partially reduced oxygen species (PROS) in vivo have long been known, the mechanism of reactions responsible for their pathological effects is still not clear. Our review presents evidence supporting the thesis, that proteins are the primary targets of PROS in cells, and that the protein radicals and other reactive protein derivatives generated act as intermediates, propagating the oxidative damage to other cell components. Understanding of the reactions of reactive forms of proteins should result in more effective defence of organisms against the effects of oxidative stress.