Alcohol toxicity: the role of oxidative stress

Abstract

Ethanol, the major component of alcoholic beverages, is one of the most consumed substances in the world causing millions of deaths due to its harmful use. Oxidative stress and the consequent disruption of redox signalling can lead to cell damage. Free radical generation has been proposed as one of the main mechanisms responsible of EtOH-induced multi-organ damage. Indeed, alcohol abuse can trigger several mechanisms of toxicity in different tissues including liver, kidney, ear, and cardiovascular and nervous systems. Here, we show scientific evidences about most important effects of chronic and acute alcohol abuse discussing the role of oxidative stress in alcohol toxicity in different tissues and organs. Although biochemical pathways underlying EtOH-induced disease are not completely understood, it is generally accepted that free radical overproduction could trigger and aggravate alcohol-related diseases.