Harnessing H2O2-induced susceptibility in Galleria mellonella larvae: A robust model for exploring oxidative stress and biomarkers

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in various pathological conditions. This study introduces an enhanced model using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced stress in Galleria mellonella larvae, offering a cost-effective and ethically sound alternative for oxidative stress research. The model bridges in vitro and in vivo studies to identify biomarkers like lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, hemocyte count, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Our results show that while G. mellonella larvae tolerated high doses of H2O2, increased susceptibility occurred with prolonged toxicosis and higher concentrations. Acute H2O2 exposure (5.0 M/1st day) led to elevated lipid and protein oxidation and decreased superoxide dismutase activity and hemocyte count, while catalase activity and total antioxidant capacity increased. Despite these defenses, the larvae's antioxidant capacity was insufficient under severe oxidative stress, reducing survival. This study highlights G. mellonella larvae as a promising model for examining reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress.