The pathological damage in Duchenne muscular dystrophy may be due to increased intracellular OXY-radical generation caused by the absence of dystrophin and subsequent alterations in Ca2+ metabolism.

Recent advances in the genetic and molecular pathogenesis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and the evidence suggesting a role for oxygen free radicals (oxy-radicals) in the development of this disease are reviewed. In addition, we outline a working of hypothesis as to how disruptions in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis within the dystrophic cell may initiate cycles of increased oxy-radical fluxes within these cells, leading to intracellular oxidative damage.