reactive species

Reactive species are unstable molecules or atoms that have unpaired electrons, making them highly reactive. Examples include reactive oxygen species (ROS) like free radicals, which can interact with other molecules such as DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. These interactions can cause damage, contributing to processes like aging and disease, but they also play roles in normal cell signaling and immune responses. The balance between beneficial and harmful effects depends on the amount and context of these reactive species within the body.