Abstract

Nowadays, Atherosclerosis is the most important source of morbidity and mortality in the world, and is detected by the accumulation of lipids deposits (mainly cholesterol) in macrophages located not only in large but also in medium sized arteries. Currently, the association between atherosclerosis and heightened oxidative stress is widely accepted. Nevertheless, despite numerous efforts the role of oxidative stress in the progression of Atherosclerosis is still not clear. Oxidation is a biochemical process of loss of electrons, which is essential for life due to its involvement in the production of cellular energy. However, when oxidation is excessive causing cellular damage is when Oxidative Stress appears. This process is complex; therefore, it cannot be measured or defined by a single parameter. For this reason, currently the interest lies on developing antioxidant therapies and diets enriched with antioxidants that prevent or at least decrease cellular damage and atheromatous plaque formation originated by the excess of oxidative stress.