Redox imbalance in urology: mechanistic insights into the development and progression of selected urological conditions

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key mediators of cellular signalling and play a vital role in regulating both physiological and pathological processes. In urologically relevant tissues, particularly the prostate, bladder and kidneys, redox processes influence vascular function, immune responses, cell proliferation, metabolic adaptations and programmed cell death. A disruption of redox homeostasis contributes significantly to the development and progression of urological diseases, including prostate cancer, urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and renal cell carcinoma. This review article examines the mechanisms underlying the transition from physiological redox regulation to pathological dysregulation, as well as their significance for tumourigenesis, the tumour microenvironment, therapeutic resistance and disease progression. Finally, diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives of redox-based strategies, including innovative approaches such as medical gas plasma, are discussed.