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1553589 
Journal Article 
Evaluating Oxidative Stress in Human Cardiovascular Disease: Methodological Aspects and Considerations 
Lee, R; Margaritis, M; Channon, KM; Antoniades, C 
2012 
Yes 
Current Medicinal Chemistry
ISSN: 0929-8673
EISSN: 1875-533X 
19 
16 
2504-2520 
22489713 
WOS:000304044700004 
Oxidative stress is a key feature in atherogenesis, since
reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in all stages of the disease, from endothelial
dysfunction to atheromatic plaque formation and rupture. It is therefore important to identify
reliable biomarkers allowing us to monitor vascular oxidative stress status. These may lead to
improved understanding of disease pathogenesis and development of new therapeutic strategies.
Measurement of circulating biomarkers of oxidative stress is challenging, since circulation
usually behaves as a separate compartment to the individual structures of the vascular wall.
However, measurement of stable products released by the reaction of ROS and vascular/circulating
molecular structures is a particularly popular approach. Serum lipid hydroperoxides, plasma
malondialdehyde or urine F2-isoprostanes are widely used and have a prognostic value in
cardiovascular disease. Quantification of oxidative stress at a tissue level is much more
accurate. Various chemiluminescence and high performance liquid chromatography assays have been
developed over the last few years, and some of them are extremely accurate and specific. Electron
spin resonance spectroscopy and micro-electrode assays able to detect ROS directly are also
widely used. In conclusion, measurement of circulating biomarkers of oxidative stress is
valuable, and some of them appear to have predictive value in cardiovascular disease. However,
these biomarkers do not necessarily reflect intravascular oxidative stress and therefore cannot
be used as therapeutic targets or markers to monitor pharmacological treatments in clinical
settings. Measurement of vascular oxidative stress status is still the only reliable way to
evaluate the involvement of oxidative stress in atherogenesis. 
Analytical methods; atherosclerosis; biomarkers; lipid peroxidation; oxidative stress; nitric oxide; superoxide