Yes, excess oxygen can damage cells.
Research indicates that when there is an overabundance of oxygen, it can lead to a process similar to rusting within cells. This process primarily affects proteins containing iron and sulfur. When these proteins "rust" (oxidize), they trigger a cascade of events that ultimately damage cells and tissues. This cellular damage is linked to various diseases and aging processes. The Gladstone Institutes, for example, has highlighted this mechanism, showing how excess oxygen changes these iron-sulfur proteins, leading to cellular dysfunction.
Think of it like this: just as too much water can damage metal over time, too much oxygen can damage the delicate machinery within our cells. This damage occurs at a molecular level, affecting the proteins responsible for carrying out essential functions.
Therefore, while oxygen is essential for life, an excess of it can be detrimental, leading to cellular damage through oxidative processes.
