Metal-induced oxidative stress: an evidence-based update of advantages and disadvantages

Metals are well distributed in our ecosystem and have several advantages and disadvantages. Some are well known for inducing oxidative stress by disturbing the cellular redox system and generating intracellular reactive oxygen species and are thus responsible for many pathologies. Several studies have reported metal-induced oxidative stress and the resultant poor health outcomes. However, recently, researchers have modified the oxidative stress–inducing property of metals for treatment and diagnostic purposes. They have developed various metal-based nanoparticles, composites, drug delivery systems, sensors, and detectors. Such products have demonstrated therapeutic potential against various cancer cell lines and microbial infections; thus, they have diagnostic potential for the detection of various oxidative stress parameters in different biological fluids.