Mechanisms of reactive oxygen species in oral lichen planus: A literature review

Oral lichen planus is a chronic non-infectious mucosal inflammatory disease caused by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species homeostasis and antioxidant defense systems. Notably, excessive oxidative stress products result in related autoimmune reactions. Further, it activates signaling pathways related to the development of oral lichen planus, as evidenced by the detection of damage to deoxyribonucleic acid, protein, and lipid. Thus, the mechanisms of reactive oxygen species-mediated oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus are numerous and complex. In this review, we first introduce oxidative stress and oxidative products. Then, we summarize the role and possible mechanisms of reactive oxygen species-mediated oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus and present a clinical correlation between oxidative stress and oral lichen planus. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future perspectives.