Elite Journal of Laboratory Medicine. Volume 2 issue 3(2024), Pp. 1-0 https://epjournals.com/journals/EJLM Citation: Obeagu EI, Obeagu GU. Reactive Oxygen Species and Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms in Sickle Cell Anemia: A Review. Elite Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2024; 2(3): 1-10 1 Reactive Oxygen Species and Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms in Sickle Cell Anemia: A Review * Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu 1 and Getrude Uzoma Obeagu 2 1 Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University, Uganda 3 School of Nursing Science, Kampala International University, Uganda * Corresponding authour: Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University, Uganda, emmanuelobeagu@yahoo.com, ORCID: 0000-0002- 4538-0161 Abstract Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a genetic hemoglobinopathy characterized by abnormal hemoglobin S (HbS) production, leading to the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells. Oxidative stress, resulting from the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms, plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of SCA. This comprehensive review examines the mechanisms underlying oxidative stress in SCA, including sources of ROS production and the role of antioxidant defense mechanisms. Furthermore, the review explores the implications of oxidative stress for disease severity and complications in SCA and discusses current therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress. Understanding the complex interplay between ROS production and antioxidant defenses is critical for developing effective therapeutic interventions to mitigate oxidative stress and improve outcomes in SCA. Further research is warranted to elucidate the efficacy and safety of existing and emerging therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with SCA. Keywords: Reactive Oxygen Species, Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms, Sickle Cell Anemia, Oxidative Stress, Redox Imbalance, Hydroxyurea, Transfusion Therapy Introduction Sickle cell anemia (SCA) stands as one of the most prevalent inherited blood disorders worldwide, characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin S (HbS) leading to erythrocyte deformation into a characteristic sickle shape. While the primary pathophysiological hallmark of