Antioxidant Therapeutics as a Dual Strategy Against Anaemia and Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Disorders

Bizimana Rukundo T.

Faculty of Biological Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Anaemia and oxidative stress are frequently comorbid in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney disease. The two processes are bi-directionally linked: oxidative stress perturbs iron handling, erythropoiesis, and red blood cell (RBC) lifespan, while anaemia exacerbates tissue hypoxia and generates further reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). This interplay contributes to inflammation, organ dysfunction, reduced exercise capacity, and worsened clinical outcomes. Antioxidant therapeutics-ranging from endogenous pathway activators and mitochondria-targeted compounds to nutraceuticals and adjunctive agents used with iron or erythropoiesis-stimulating therapies-offer a promising dual strategy to simultaneously mitigate oxidative damage and improve hematologic status. This review synthesizes current mechanistic understanding of the anaemia-oxidative stress axis in metabolic disease, evaluates classes of antioxidant interventions with preclinical and clinical evidence, discusses biomarker-guided use and safety considerations, and outlines research priorities to translate antioxidant strategies into improved patient outcomes.

Keywords: Anaemia, oxidative stress, metabolic disorders, antioxidants, erythropoiesis

 

CITE AS: Bizimana Rukundo T. (2026). Antioxidant Therapeutics as a Dual Strategy Against Anaemia and Oxidative Stress in Metabolic Disorders. IDOSR JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 12(1):27-33. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JST/26/113.2733