Cancer cells have high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) owing to metabolic and genetic alterations. The role of ROS in cancer cells is controversial as they can have both pro-tumorigenic and antitumorigenic properties. In this Review, Mak and colleagues discuss recent findings that cancer cells upregulate antioxidant pathways to counteract ROS, and explore the potential of anticancer strategies that target the antioxidant capacity of tumour cells.
- Chiara Gorrini
- Isaac S. Harris
- Tak W. Mak