Role of metal ions in oxidant cell injury.

This paper represents a short review of recent data on the molecular mechanism(s) of H2O2 cytotoxicity. The role of metal ions has been discussed in light of their ability to drive a reaction of the Fenton type. Hydroxyl radicals play a key role in mediating the deleterious effects of the oxidant, although these species do not seem to directly produce the lethal lesions. It still remains unclear whether or not DNA represents a critical target for H2O2-induced cytotoxicity.